Massive thanks to Dr. Andrea Clarke,  Naturopathic Doctor for helping us boost our knowledge of hormones and leading us on the path towards vibrant health.

Here’s a quick summary from Dr. Andrea on two of our favourite hormone balancing herbs (along with a recipe for each):

Schizandra is a berry native to China, used as an adaptogen, sexual tonic, hepatoprotective and energy booster. One of my favourites for supporting hormone balance and boosting liver health, which go hand in hand. Its also super tasty and tangy when added to a tea blend or to kombucha brew.

Sparkling Schisandra Strawberry Punch (mykoreankitchen.com)

Ingredients

1/2 cups dried Schisandra berry

2 cups water

200 g / 7 ounces strawberries, stems removed

3 Tbsp honey

1 cup carbonated water, chilled

mint leaves (optional), to garnish

Instructions

  1. Steep the dried Schisandra berry in the water overnight. Strain the berries and discard. Set aside the water.
  2. Mince the strawberries with a masher or fork, then combine it with the honey.
  3. Combine the strained water (from step 1), strawberry and honey mixture (from step 2) and carbonated water in a jug. Add some sugar syrup to your taste. Stir well. Serve in a chilled glass then garnish with mint leaves (optional).

 

Maca is a herb is famous for hormone balancing for women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). However it isn’t just a PCOS celebrity, it is kind of an endocrine powerhouse for balancing all of the big hormones. Unfortunately, we have no solid evidence for it’s mechanism of action, but it’s been known to improve mood, reduce hot flashes, regulate menstrual cycles and reduces period pain.

Sexy Maca Balls (joyoushealth.com)

Ingredients

1.5 tsp Maca powder

1 tbsp ground cinnamon

2 tbsp raw cacao powder

1/4 cup dark chocolate chips or raw cacao nibs

1/2 cup raw almond or cashews

1/4 cup goji berries or dried cranberries

1 tsp vanilla extract

8-10 soft Medjool dates, pit removed

Instructions

  1. If your Medjool dates are dry, soak them for 30 minutes to 1 hour in warm water.
  2. Toss all ingredients into a high powder blender or preferably a food processor and blend until crumbly.
  3. If the texture is lacking moisture, add a very small splash of water and keep adding until it reaches a texture that clumps nicely into balls.
  4. Roll into 1.5 inch balls.