Don't be scared by the word fibroid tumor. It's called tumor because of its huge mass, not because it is cancerous. Its growth is rather slow. It grows in the muscle layers of the uterine wall. Fiber tissues and muscles form the structure of fibroid tumor. It's usually harmless, however, there could be exceptions and in such cases several symptoms could be seen. These symptoms include excess menstrual bleeding during periods, cramps, frequent urination, heavy sensation in the pelvis etc.
Moreover, it could lead to infertility. There could be other complications as well during pregnancy, such as, excess postpartum bleeding and miscarriage.
Women who have never been pregnant are prone to have fibroids between the ages of 35 and 45. One interesting characteristic of these fibroids is that it is not common among women below 20 and women past their menopause phase.
Even though the exact cause of fibroids is not yet known, studies suggest that estrogen levels have an influence on the growth of fibroid. When estrogen levels are high then fibroids grows faster. Some other factors also may lead to fibroids: deficiency of vitamin B, excess production of progesterone hormone, alcohol use, obesity and intake of high-fat food.
Removing the uterus is the best known treatment for fibroids. However, for those women who want to remain fertile can opt for myomectomy, a surgery that removes only the fibroid mass. However, unless it is a severe case, you are advised to follow the simple home remedies since they hold no side effects of any kind.
Now, let's have a look at some of the home remedies for fibroids. Milk thistle (Silybum marianum), is a Chinese herb which can be used for treating fibroids. Liver has got the ability to restrict estrogen levels, and milk thistle can act as an assistant to liver for this process. Silymarin, a compound in Milk thistle, is known for its ability to repair liver. Silymarin should be taken three times a day, dosage follows; first three months 140 milligrams and next four months 90 milligrams.
Let's see another herb; namely, Burdock (Arctium lappa, A. minus). The studies on animals have shown that it is capable of repairing the liver as well as fighting the tumor. You may take the one 500 mg capsule a day for 6 months. For better results you have to patiently consume this for 6 months.
Another important herb, known as Vitex (Vitex agnus-castus), also has been found very effective in treating this. Ever since Hippocrates suggested this herb in 450 B.C., it is a widely used herb for the problems related to women. Vitex can effectively control the estrogen levels in female body. It must be taken for at least six months on a daily basis.
You could also try the following simple home remedies for fibroids. Try to have hot sitz baths in moderately warm water having essential oils mixed in it. You could also apply a castor oil pack dipped in lavender essential oil in the areas having pain. This is good natural remedy for pain relief. We also recommend following supplements for 4 months on a daily basis: One thousand to two thousand milligram of Vitamin C, Selenium 400 micrograms and 30 milligrams of Zinc.