Endometriosis is an abnormal growth of uterine lining outside the uterus. It can grow on the abdominal walls or any abdominal organ such as the ovaries, intestines, and fallopian tubes. Rarely it does occur in other parts of the body. Endometriosis can cause chronic abdominal pain, abnormal bleeding, and infertility. Endometriosis causes infertility in 30-40% of sufferers.

A global survey of over 7,000 women from 52 countries presented at the 9th World Congress on Endometriosis on September 14-17, 2005 showed shocking results. Women in the study were found to wait three years before seeing a doctor about their pain--then another 8 years before they finally recieved a diagnosis. Half of the women had seen more than 5 physicians before getting a diagnosis.

The study also showed that 2,716 of the women had tried alternative therapies with 33% showing at least some improvement. Improvement was about equal among the various therapies.

Essential fatty acids (EFA) found in cold water fish, flax seed and evening primrose oil can help to reduce the inflammation associated with endometriosis. Following an anti-inflammation diet is extremely important to lower estrogen and inflammation. Avoid wheat, citrus, soy and yams as they raise estrogen levels. Use castor oil packs to help draw toxins out of the abdomen.

Work on liver health to help balance your hormones and remove toxins. You may wish to consider an internal cleanse. Hormones are metabolized in the liver. Consider using milk thistle, dandelion,and B vitamins. Avoid fatty foods, alcohol, and conventionally raised meat and dairy products. It is probably healthier to avoid red meat and diary altogether. Avoid estrogenic herbs and foods to reduce estrogen. Progesterone cream and wild yam may increase progesterone levels and help to counter excess estrogen. Take anti-inflammatory herbs such as ginger to reduce swelling.

While black cohosh is estrogenic, it is also known to reduce scarring and inflammation.

You may find the following tea helpful. Use 4-6 tablespoons of herbs to one quart of filtered water. Simmer for a few minutes then allow them to steep for 20 minutes. Strain and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to drink it. Drink 3 cups per day for 3 weeks, then repeat after your period for several months.

Endometriosis Tea

3 parts dandelion root
1 part Black Cohosh
3 parts wild yam
2 parts Pau’ d’Arco bark
1 part vitex
1 part Oregon Grape root
1 part milk thistle
½ part dong quai