Chinese Medicine

Learn how Chinese Medicine can be used to treat endometriosis

This is part of the  Complementary and Alternative Therapies for Endometriosis Series

Chinese medicine is another example of a complementary therapy that may be beneficial as a treatment for endometriosis-related symptoms. Clinical studies suggest that Chinese herbs can relieve pain symptoms related to endometriosis. The mechanisms at work may include the inhibition of growth of ectopic endometrium, endocrine regulation, and the regulation of prostaglandin-related receptors. Chinese medicine might also work by improving blood circulation and regulating immune function. Further research is needed to know the efficacy and safety of these methods.

One of the primary mechanisms involved in endometriosis is angiogenesis, or the process by which new blood vessels are formed. Angiogenesis inhibitors have been shown to stop the regression of endometriosis lesions. Chinese herbs show anti-angiogenic effects. Research suggests there may be a therapeutic potential to agents derived from natural compounds and Chinese medicines. Due to the limited amount of research, more studies are needed.

In studies, certain Chinese therapies were not entirely curative of endometriosis and could not eradicate endometriosis lesions. It’s thought that these therapies may be beneficial in modulating the progress of endometriosis by suppressing symptoms, shrinking the lesions, and decreasing the recurrence rate.

Additionally, various studies verified that constituents isolated from plants, for instance, epigallocatechin gallate, curcumin, puerarin, ginsenoside, and resveratrol, can be used to treat endometriosis. Hence, the use of medicinal plants and phytoconstituents of medicinal plants has been regarded as a novel approach for treating endometriosis and maintaining a healthy life. Additional long-term studies are required to support the safety of the constituents of medicinal plants, chiefly concerning the plant-drug interactions and the appropriate dosage.

- Novel Drug Targets with Traditional Herbal Medicines for Overcoming Endometriosis

Resources

The following studies and articles provide more information on Chinese Medicine as a treatment for endometriosis-related symptoms:

Complementary and Alternative Therapies Series


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