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Puberty & Adolesence
Hormones prompt many of the next developmental stages in life. Adolescence is the period during which boys begin to become men and girls begin to become women. Girls start to menstruate, their bodies preparing for pregnancy, birth, motherhood and, eventually, the menopause. Boys bodies begin to change shape, their voices 'break' and they begin to grow facial hair. Hormones drive all these changes. What follows is an appraisal of the current knowledge regarding the three main male and female hormones, about which science is constantly discovering more and enlightening revelations.
Plants contain many hormones and have a full, rich history. Of the world's hundreds of herbs there is still a vast amount of scientific research to be done but it is known that they can often affect men and women in varying ways in different situations. They mostly contain saponins, which have a natural steroidal effect on the body, acting as building blocks, which can be converted by the body into the exact requirements that are needed. Sometimes these hormonal herbs can switch the pituitary gland on or off, which is the major control centre (located in the base of the brain) for all hormonal function within the body. Some herbs have a more oestrogenic effect and others a more progesterogenic or testosterone effect but this can also alter, often depending on the 'as needed' situation prevailing.
Functions of Oestrogen, Progesterone and Testosterone in the Body
Oestrogen:
guides the young female foetus from babyhood to womanhood, partially explaining why girls behave like girls (such as playing nurturing games) and why eventually they grow breasts and develop higher voices and broader hips.
helps in the growth of the endometrial tissue that forms a 'nest' for a fertilised egg - it is the fertility hormone.
helps to relax blood vessel walls and aids circulation and tone in the genital tract. This relaxation causes cervical secretions that are inviting to the sperm.
helps to retain bone calcium.
needs to be balanced in order to prevent dramatic mood swings, painful cramping menstruation and more problems in later womanhood. A joyful woman has balanced oestrogen levels.
levels increase after menstruation and ovulation, then decrease pre-menstrually, although this hormone is present throughout the whole cycle.
excessive production creates an imbalance in the production of a hormone called alderosterone and this, in turn, disturbs water balance in the body, resulting in swelling and tenderness of the breasts, stomach and ankles. Excessive oestrogen will lower progesterone levels and cause a chemical imbalance in the brain, involving the hormones, adrenaline, serotonin and dopamine. It will also cause poor metabolism of some vitamins, minerals and fatty acids and will over-stimulate the body, causing paranoia, anxiety, palpitations, hot and cold sweats, shaking and lowered blood sugar.
a deficiency interferes with the successful breakdown of tryptophan and other mood-balancing and enhancing chemicals in the brain.
whenever the body is damaged, either by physical trauma, chemical action, or illness, oestrogen and other steroid hormones appear in great concentration; possibly serving as stimulants or catalysts for cellular growth and body repair.
Oestrogen is the food upon which cancer grows (to produce cancer in lower animals, scientists introduce an oestrogen base).
encourages the development of male hormones in pubescent boys.
Progesterone:
is the precursor of the other sex hormones, oestrogen and testosterone.
is the predominant hormone in the second phase of the menstrual cycle, acting to maintain any fertilised eggs.
mainly prepares for and supports pregnancy (in fact the word progesterone is derived from the Latin meaning 'supporting gestation' - ‘Pro’ means ‘for, and ‘gest(ation)’ means ‘birth’). Without it, spontaneous abortion can take place. It is vital for the survival of the embryo and foetus throughout gestation.
protects against breast fibrocysts and endometrial and breast cancers.
is a natural diuretic and can alleviate a pre-menstrual bloated feeling.
helps use fat for energy: fat is built by oestrogen, progesterone works to balance this.
is a natural antidepressant - lack of it will bring on apathy, sluggishness and depression. However, an excessive amount of progesterone may cause depression, lack of concentration and weepiness.
helps thyroid action and resulting energy levels.
normalises blood clotting. If clots are seen menstrually, progesterone herbs will help.
helps normalise blood sugar levels; often pre-menstrual sugar cravings mean that there is too little progesterone available.
normalises zinc and copper levels, which are especially vital for the immune system.
stimulates bone growth, which is vital for the development of children and to prevent osteoporosis in later life.
is the precursor of cortisone synthesis produced by the adrenal cortex, which is essential for sustaining the balance of the adrenal glands. This in turn directly supports the thyroid.
restores proper cell oxygen levels and therefore helps concentration and, in particular, mental agility.
Testosterone:
is produced by the testes in the male body. The testes lie dormant throughout infancy and early childhood, until the onset of puberty, at which time the male organs enlarge.
if levels are low during the development of the foetus, the testes will not descend properly if at all. The development of sperm may also be adversely affected.
causes aggression which, when channelled correctly, is a major human survival instinct.
promotes hair growth on the face, abdomen, pubis, chest and armpits and increases larynx development, which results in the adult male voice becoming lower.
increases the protein content of muscles, bones and skin.
encourages the development of female hormones in pubescent girls.
Men produce ten times more testosterone than women. This gives men their more muscular features. For the adolescent male these testosterone surges can be quite alarming and can be reflected in loud, reckless behaviour, which is often difficult to handle for them as well as those around them. Add to this a congested liver and the result can indeed be explosive. Alcohol reduces testosterone levels and may result in stunted masculine development. Just as for women, the endocrine system is very important to male adolescent evolution.
Adolescence
If you look around, you will observe that girls are usually a few years ahead of boys in developmental terms and in their emotional moods and feelings which are swayed by hormone changes. Nevertheless, boys catch up and have their own particular problems to deal with. Girls can begin to menstruate as early as eight to ten years old but it is more common around the age of twelve. With the use of good food, occasional herbs and other balancing modalities, a lot of what parents refer to as 'horrible hormone moods' can be partially alleviated and supported, making it easier for adolescents to step out of childhood and into adulthood. It is essential that we remember that adolescents themselves do not enjoy their own body swings and emotional outbursts - or parental reactions.
During adolescence, a great many new hormones are circulating in the system, dramatically affecting the whole energy of the body, moods and feelings. I feel that, in cultures where the passage of maturing into adulthood was traditionally celebrated, this recognition of the transition may have served to create for adolescents a greater understanding of the immense challenges that lay before them. Young men and women need to know they are special at this time. Denial of this passage can lead to many problems, including anorexia, bulimia and liver problems. Still today in many tribal cultures they celebrate a ‘rite of passage’ at this special time, whereas we have unfortunately lost this connection in the ‘modern world’.
The roles of the Liver & Kidneys in Hormone Function
The Liver
The liver has an important role for menstruating young women and for those who are not yet menstruating but are cyclic. The liver produces many of the sex-related hormones itself as well as processing others, which are produced elsewhere in the body. Occasionally, and particularly pre-menstrually, when progesterone is high, the liver becomes congested with excesses of hormones. Unable for one reason or another to deal with these, the liver becomes sluggish. Toxins accumulate as a result of this incapacitation and things can go from bad to worse. Emotions associated with the liver are joy if functioning properly, and anger and depression if overworked and under-functioning so, at key hormone times, it can become quite an emotional time bomb. The liver can also work in harmony or at cross-purposes with the spleen and both are worth looking at together on a regular and frequent basis.
The Kidneys
The kidneys must also function well and, along with the adrenal glands, may need to be supported in times of stress as weakness in these will adversely affect hormone production. In this case Siberian ginseng would help. A healthy bowel is also essential. The endocrine or hormone system as a whole must be understood. Apart form the major hormones which have already been discussed there are glands situated in key areas throughout the body which secrete very small amounts of other hormones. Their healthy and balanced function is essential to adolescents as they dictate to a large extent this delicate transition from childhood to adulthood. It is often observed that the endocrine system is very similar to the Ayurvedic system of chakras, so yoga exercises, deep breathing and any other chakra-balancing exercises you may know of can help. Watching for the first showings of pubic and underarm hair and breast development will help mums, dads, daughters and sons tune in to what is going on and to be more alert to any uncomfortable mood swings which may be alleviated by foods, herbs and exercise.
Nutrition
All teenagers should avoid tea and coffee because these damage hormone production, clog the liver and encourage problem skin. They also interrupt growth in children and adolescents, reducing the absorption of iron and calcium, both of which are vital for growing bodies. These much-used drinks can also cause hyperactivity.
Similarly, acne can be a problem for male and female teenagers and confidence levels can swing, but with good food and herbs this problem can be reduced. Good diet alleviates general growing pains and gives vital energy.
Headaches and migraines can also be a problem when hormones are changing or surging, and can indicate sluggish liver or kidney function.
Male Herbs
A wonderful male herb that helps to balance the body is saw palmetto. This safely and efficiently tones and strengthens the male reproductive system, enhancing the male sex hormones when required. It also helps prostate enlargement, debilitation and infection and benefits bladder efficiency and the nervous system. Dose: 1tsp 3 x daily.
Female Herbs
For young women, even before menstruation has begun, there can be obvious cyclic patterns mirroring what will become full menstruation. For those already menstruating, pain and pre-menstrual mood swings can really be alarming. However, hormone-balancing herbs can be overly strong for young women and reduced dosages are therefore recommended. A good choice is agnus castus. This hormonal herb helps to regulate the female gynaecological system. It is most frequently used for menstrual complaints in women (but also involuntary ejaculation in men). It works by stimulating the pituitary gland, which then appropriately signals to balance the endocrine system. ˝ tsp 3 x daily (build up to 1 tsp 3 x daily over 2 to 3 months).
More Herbs to help with Adolescence and Puberty
Pau d'arco (inner bark) from South America is a rainforest tree and influences both the liver and endocrine system. It can be safely taken over a period of time and is extremely rich in calcium, which is useful for growing bodies.
Wild yam (root) beneficially affects the liver, digestive system, adrenals, colon and the endocrine system. It is also a hormone precursor. It can be safely taken over a period of time by both sexes.
Siberian ginseng (root) and liquorice (rhizome) are major endocrine gland tonics and contain properties similar to adrenal cortical hormone; they will therefore help exhausted teenagers! They will also generally detoxify and support the liver and bloodstream.
Dandelion (root) and burdock (root) make a great team as liver cleansers, and the burdock really helps to get rid of teenage acne; both are supreme endocrine tonics. Teas made of these two herbs are excellent with a little liquorice to sweeten.
Milk Thistle or preferably the Liver Support Formula will really help adolescent surges and other emotional roller-coasters of tears, sadness etc.
Iron intake is vital, especially by girls, but adolescence generally increases the need for this mineral. 'Floradix' (available at many health food stores and Boots) or Nettle & Raspberry leaf tea will provide sufficient quantities for their needs.
Herbal Formula Suggestions
Puberty Formula for both male and female teens & pre-teens
Adrenal Support Formula
Monthly Balance Formula to balance monthly hormones and Pre-menstrual Formula to balance pre-menstrual phase
Liver Cleanse & Support Formula for liver cleansing & support
Kidney Cleanse & Support Formula for kidney cleansing & support
Colon Cleanse Products for gentle colon cleansing, if necessary
‘The Green Stuff’ vitamin & mineral food concentrate for supporting daily nutritional needs
Raspberry & Nettle leaf Tea and/or Pau d’arco bark Tea
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