Herbs for Heavy Periods: A Natural Approach to Managing Menorrhagia

Heavy periods, also known as menorrhagia, can feel like a constant uphill battle, disrupting daily life and leaving you exhausted both physically and emotionally. It’s something I’ve seen many women struggle with, and the good news is that there are ways to address it naturally. While conventional treatments, such as hormonal medications or surgical options, are often suggested, an increasing number of women are exploring herbal remedies as a natural and holistic approach to managing heavy menstrual bleeding.

Here, I’ll walk you through some of my favourite herbs that have been trusted for centuries—and backed by science—to support menstrual health. I’ll explain how they work and why they might be the solution you’ve been looking for. 

What Causes Heavy Periods?

Usually, for a period to be classed as heavy, you have to lose more than 80 ml of blood per cycle or bleed for longer than seven days. While it's difficult to actually measure the amount of blood, if you think your period is heavy, and it's leaving you quickly bleeding through collection methods, it's something that needs to be addressed.

This can leave you feeling weak, depleted, and paranoid about leaking. For some women, it feels like your period is running the show—but it doesn’t have to be that way. The causes can vary and include:

• Hormonal imbalances (e.g., excess estrogen or insufficient progesterone)

• Uterine fibroids

• Endometriosis

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)

• Copper IUDs

• Blood clotting disorders

• Adenomyosis

Herbal medicines aim to address the underlying causes of heavy bleeding to reduce the amount of bleeding long-term, while providing symptomatic relief.

1. Red Dead Nettle (Lamium Purpureum)

Overview:

Lamium purpureum, commonly known as red dead nettle, is a highly underrated herb with powerful astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally used in European herbal medicine, it is renowned for its ability to reduce excessive bleeding and support uterine health.

Mechanism of Action:

• Astringent Properties: Lamium purpureum contains tannins, which help tighten and tone tissues, supporting overall uterine health. Its effects on heavy bleeding are more likely due to the combined action of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, which help modulate inflammation and promote hemostasis. This astringent effect makes it particularly useful for addressing menorrhagia.

• Anti-Inflammatory Action: The herb’s bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, help reduce inflammation in the uterus, calming excessive contractions and supporting overall uterine health.

• Haemostatic Effect: Lamium purpureum supports the body’s natural ability to clot blood, which can be beneficial for reducing prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding.

2. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Overview:

Yarrow is a well-known herb in traditional medicine for its ability to stop excessive bleeding and regulate menstrual cycles. Its use dates back to ancient times, where it was prized for wound healing and its impact on blood flow.

Mechanism of Action:

• Uterine Tonic: Yarrow helps tone the uterine muscles, improving their efficiency and reducing spasms or excessive shedding of the endometrial lining.

• Astringent Effect: Yarrow contains tannins that tone tissues, but its ability to reduce heavy bleeding is also attributed to other bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and azulene, which help modulate inflammation and improve uterine health.

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Compounds such as azulene and chamazulene contribute to yarrow’s ability to reduce uterine inflammation.

3. Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)

Overview:

Shepherd’s Purse is one of the most powerful herbs for reducing heavy menstrual bleeding. It has a strong haemostatic effect, making it a go-to remedy for both heavy periods and postpartum haemorrhage.

Mechanism of Action:

• Blood Vessel Constriction: Shepherd’s Purse promotes vasoconstriction, tightening blood vessels to reduce bleeding.

• Coagulation Support: The herb enhances the body’s natural clotting mechanisms, which is particularly beneficial for prolonged bleeding.

• Anti-Inflammatory: Its anti-inflammatory properties further help calm the uterine lining, reducing irritation and excessive shedding.

4. Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Overview:

Known as the “womb tonic,” raspberry leaf is a gentle yet highly effective herb for supporting menstrual health. While it’s often used during pregnancy, it’s equally beneficial for regulating heavy periods.

Mechanism of Action:

• Uterine Tonic: Fragarine, a key compound in raspberry leaf, helps tone and strengthen the uterine muscles, reducing excessive bleeding and cramping.

• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with iron, magnesium, and vitamins, raspberry leaf replenishes nutrients lost during heavy periods and supports overall reproductive health.

5. Vitex Agnus-castus (Chaste Tree)

Overview:

Vitex Agnus-castus is a hormonal regulator that works indirectly to reduce heavy bleeding by balancing oestrogen and progesterone levels. It’s particularly effective for those whose heavy periods are caused by hormonal imbalances, such as in PCOS or peri-menopause.

Mechanism of Action:

• Pituitary Regulation: Vitex Agnus-castus acts on the hypothalamus and pituitary glands to modulate hormone production, promoting a healthy balance of estrogen and progesterone.

• Reduces Estrogen Dominance: By supporting progesterone production, Vitex Agnus-castus helps counteract oestrogen dominance, a common cause of heavy bleeding.

Simple Lifestyle Tips to Pair with Herbal Remedies

While herbs can be incredibly effective, combining them with lifestyle changes can maximise their beneficial effects. Here are some tips:

• Iron-Rich Foods: Include foods like spinach, lentils, and red meat to replenish iron levels lost during heavy bleeding.

• Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Reduce processed foods and sugar while increasing omega-3-rich foods, such as salmon and flaxseeds.

• Hydration: Stay hydrated to combat fatigue and improve overall well-being.

• Stress Management: Incorporate yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce stress, which can impact hormone levels.

Work With Me to Find Relief

Heavy periods don’t have to run your life—you deserve to feel empowered and supported. If heavy bleeding, severe discomfort, or anaemia are holding you back, let’s work together to find a solution that works for you.

During a personalised consultation, we’ll dive into your unique health story and create an herbal plan tailored just for you. Book your consultation today and let’s start this journey together.

Conclusion

Heavy periods can feel debilitating, but with the support of herbs like Lamium purpureum, yarrow, shepherd’s purse, raspberry leaf, and vitex-agnus castus, you can take steps toward restoring balance and regaining control of your cycle. These natural remedies work holistically to address the root causes of heavy bleeding while supporting your overall well-being.

If you’re ready to explore how these herbs can fit into your wellness plan, consider consulting a qualified herbalist or healthcare provider to create a personalised approach tailored to your unique needs.