Herbal medicine may help treat endometriosis, researchers say
August 27, 2009 by Personal Liberty News Desk
A review of available scientific evidence has found that Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) may be able to treat the symptoms of endometriosis in patients undergoing treatment for the disorder.
According to Endometriosis.org, the condition is caused by tissue similar to the lining of the uterus growing elsewhere in the body. It often causes pelvic pain, irregular periods and may be a contributing factor to infertility in 30 to 40 percent of affected women.
Cochrane researchers reviewed two studies involving 158 women. They both showed that CHM was associated with a relief of symptoms comparable to that provided by the hormonal drugs gestrinone and danazol, respectively.
However, it was found to have fewer side effects.
Andrew Flower of the Complementary Medicine Research Unit at the University of Southampton in the UK, and lead researcher in the study, says the findings suggest "Chinese herbs may be just as effective as certain conventional drug treatments for women suffering from endometriosis."
Many recent studies have pointed to a variety of health benefits of Chinese medicine. For example, acupuncture has been shown to help relieve side effects of chemotherapy, including dry mouth and nausea.
Meanwhile, Texas scientists have said they found Chinese herbal formulas benefit cardiovascular health by inducing the production of large amounts of artery-widening nitric oxide. 
