Understanding endometriosis
Endometriosis is the presence of tissue similar to the uterine lining outside the uterus. It is a common chronic disease that affects about 10% of women of childbearing age.
These endometrial cells develop outside the uterine cavity and cause various symptoms depending on their location:
- Often very painful periods, sometimes resistant to conventional medication
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Urinary or digestive problems associated with menstruation
- Sometimes difficulty conceiving a child
This pain can be acute or chronic. The exact causes of endometriosis remain complex and poorly understood. They involve several factors, including hormonal, genetic and environmental factors.
Hormonally, there is often an imbalance with a lack of progesterone and an excess of oestrogen. The latter may be due to poor elimination of toxins by the liver, but also to exposure to endocrine disruptors, which play an important role in the disease.
Naturopathy complements traditional medicine to improve quality of life by acting on the body’s overall balance and hormonal system and supporting mental well-being.
Areas of focus in naturopathy
Several approaches can be taken:
- Reducing inflammation and pain
- Balancing the intestinal flora (microbiota)
- Reducing excess oestrogen
- Reducing stress
- Support liver detoxification
- Support fertility if pregnancy is desired
The work always begins with reducing inflammation using a personalised protocol. An appropriate diet is essential: anti-inflammatory, rich in antioxidants and foods that help alkalise the body.
This means: favouring fresh, organic and raw vegetables and fruit if possible, increasing good fats rich in omega 3 (camelina, hemp and rapeseed oils, small fish such as sardines, seeds and nuts), and incorporating spices such as cinnamon and turmeric.
Limit: excess red meat, gluten-containing grains, corn, dairy products, refined white sugar, and certain oils rich in omega-6 (peanut, corn, sunflower), as they promote inflammation.
Regular liver cleansing is also important, as it eliminates toxins that cause inflammation. The type of detox will be chosen according to your condition.
Useful dietary supplements
Certain supplements can help:
- Zinc: supports the immune system and limits inflammation
- Omega-3: powerful natural anti-inflammatories
- Resveratrol: an antioxidant that helps reduce damage
- Vitamin E: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
- Bach flowers: depending on emotional needs
- Evening primrose oil: rich in essential fatty acids with anti-inflammatory properties
- Raspberry bud: supports ovarian function and relieves spasms (avoid if you have a history of hormone-dependent cancers)
- Red vine bud: powerful anti-inflammatory
Phytotherapy and external treatments
In phytotherapy:
- Chaste tree: regulates hormones, particularly prolactin, stimulates progesterone, and relieves spasms
- Yarrow: helps reduce bleeding, acts as an anti-inflammatory and pelvic decongestant
- Alchemilla: reduces bleeding and supports progesterone
For external care, castor oil can be applied to the lower abdomen in a circular massage, then covered with a warm poultice for about an hour, every day except during menstruation.
Other complementary approaches
- Bromelain: significantly reduces pain, aids digestion and protects the intestinal mucosa (be aware of contraindications).
- Stress management: cardiac coherence, yoga, foot reflexology, acupuncture. Magnesium, at a dose of 300 to 600 mg per day, is also recommended for severe pain.
- Mycotherapy – Reishi: a powerful anti-inflammatory medicinal mushroom that acts on the nervous, endocrine and immune systems. Recommended dose: 500 mg of extract in the evening.
- PEA (palmitoylethanolamide): a natural molecule that acts as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic via the endocannabinoid system, which regulates many bodily functions.
Holistic approach and prevention
Every woman is unique. Naturopathy adapts to your body, your systems and your lifestyle. Together with your naturopath, you will define the most appropriate solutions to improve your daily life, reduce your pain and help you live better with this condition.
Endometriosis can also be an invitation to refocus on yourself. It is important to limit exposure to endocrine disruptors: avoid food additives, synthetic fragrances, plastic packaging, and pay attention to cooking methods and utensils used.
