I am going to let you in on a little secret, we ALL have Estrogen! That’s right boys, even you. The reality is that our Estrogen levels determine, in utero, if we produce male or female genitalia. Our exposure to Estrogen doesn’t stop there. We are constantly experiencing fluctuations of our Estrogen levels throughout our lives. In fact, prior to even hitting puberty we are still going through cycling of our Estrogen levels. As seen when our emotions become erratic or all over the place. When it comes to hormones most people know the bear minimum about at least two hormones: Estrogen and Testosterone. 

Different Kinds of Estrogen

What most people don’t know is that there are several different kinds of Estrogen that are produced in the body. There are four different types of Estrogen that help regulate the bodies functions: Estrone (E1), Estradiol (E2), Estriol (E3), and Estetrol (E4). Estrogen, also known as oestrogen, is the primary female hormone. There are three main Estrogens in women that have Estrogenic hormonal activity: Estrone, Estradiol, and Estriol. Of these three Estrogens the most potent and abundant is Estradiol. The fourth Estrogen, Estetrol, is only produced during pregnancy. 

Estrogen in Men

While Estrogen levels are significantly lower in men they nevertheless play an important physiological role. In men, Estrogen regulates the reproductive system important to the maturation of sperm and is necessary to produce a healthy libido in men. All forms of Estrogen are synthesized from androgens, specifically Testosterone and androstenedione, by an enzyme called aromatase. Thus, providing a glaring reminder that EVERYONE has some form and level of Estrogen in their bodies at all times. 

Estrogen In Women

Estrogen in women is needed for a variety of things. Some of the most commonly known uses of Estrogen in women are: puberty, reporduction, breast development, sex drive, immune system, heart health and function, and bone health. One of the lesser known uses of Estrogen in women is it’s effects on the neurological system. Estrogen has been shown to offer neuroprotection and DNA repairment in women. Most commonly in cognition, especially in verbal memory, mental health, and binge eating suppression. When an imbalance in Estrogen is present it can lead to a number of health related issues.

A Little Goes A Long Way

In lue, of the fact that Estrogen is such a critical factor in our overall health it is important to be able to keep it in balance. While there are several different ways to naturally help keep your Estrogen levels in balance we will cover essential oils and all natural supplements in this article. The following is a list of essential oils to reach for that can help you keep your levels balanced:

• Thyme
• Ylang Ylang
• Sandalwood
• Geranium
• Clary Sage

Thyme

Thyme oil is great for improving your overall heath. It can help relieve respiratory conditions, such as common cold, chest infections, and improving airways by reducing inflammation in the lungs. Thyme can also help improve circulation by relaxing the arteries and veins. While also strengthening cardiac muscles, reducing stress on the heart, and lowering blood pressure. It is also great for balancing out your hormones by producing Progesterone production, which lowers Estrogen delays menopause and relieves PMS symptoms. Thyme is also beneficial at reducing stress levels and can improve sleep quality and quantity. 

Ylang Ylang

Ylang ylang is a yellow flower that has been used traditionally to treat depression and relieve fearfulness. This little yellow flower has the ability to promote feelings of optimism and courage. A research study conducted in 2013 found that ylang ylang reduced systolic blood pressure and heart rate in men. While a previous study conducted in 2012 showed that ylang ylang, when combined with other essential oils, was able to lower cortisol levels. It is also an antiseptic due to the presence of linalool, geraniol, and eugenol, which are all known to be effective at eliminating some strains of bacteria. Ylang ylang can also be used as an insect repellent, especially against mosquitoes. 

Sandalwood

Sandalwood has been used in holistic health care treatments for thousands of years. In Ayurvedic medicine it is used for repairing, rejuvenating, and nourishing the skin and hair. It can also help promote cognitive functions and improve your augmentative capabilities. Sandalwood is also great for inflammation, digestive and respiratory problems. It is also known to be an aphrodisiac that can boost the libido in both men and women. Sandalwood is one of the best natural relaxants. It helps soothe your nerves, calm your senses, relax tense muscles, and relieve built up pressure on blood vessels. 

Geranium

Geranium is another flower that is native to the Cape and Northern Provinces of South Africa. This oil is an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and astringent. It is also great for promoting circulation based on its anti-inflammatory properties. Geranium is great for balancing hormones and can be used in a variety of ways. Diffusing it creates a balancing, peaceful, and calming aroma. Geranium contains naturally occurring constituents citronellol and geraniol. Which makes it great for an insect repellent. 

Clary Sage

Clary sage is a purple flower that has a VERY pronounced scent. It has several health benefits that come from the use of this potent flower. One of which is its ability to relax the central nervous system. This has been shown to help reduce and relieve seizure related symptoms. It can also be extremely beneficial for regulating your menstrual cycle and easing painful menstrual cramps. Clary sage can also help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Promotes hair growth by removing excess Sebum from the scalp. It can even improve your digestive system by increasing the production of digestive enzymes and reducing excess stomach gases. Clary sage also provides natural antiseptic properties. 

Mother Knows Best

For those individuals who are sensitive to smells there is also the option of taking all natural supplements. The following is a list of all natural supplements you can try:

• Isoflavone
• Diimdolylomethane
• Natural Progesterone
• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
• Melatonin

Natural Supplements

Isoflavone is a naturally occurring isoflavonid that acts as phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogen helps to keep Estrogen levels in balance. Isoflavone are produced almost exclusively by the bean family. Diindolylmethane is a food-based compound naturally found in vegetables like cauliflower, broccoli, and brussels sprouts. All of these foods help to balance out Estrogen levels. Progesterone helps to naturally balance Estrogen levels by working in tandem with it. When one goes up the other goes down. It is almost impossible to change one level without affecting the other. Dehyclroepiandrosterone (DHEA) also known as androstenolone is a hormone produced in the adrenal glands. It functions as a metabolic intermediate in the biosynthesis of Estrogen. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the sleep cycle. When our sleep cycles are thrown off all of our hormones are thrown out of sync. 

Food Matters!

Personally, I prefer to use nutritious foods to restore and rebuild all areas of our bodies. With that in mind I am dedicated to providing you with a great way to apply your new knowledge today. The following is one of my new favorite recipes. I hope you like it too!

Sweet Potato Tacos

Gluten-Free Vegan Serves 4 (or one if you are REALLY hungry!)

• 1 Avocado Sliced
• 14-Ounce Can Black Beans
• 1 Small head of Cauliflower cubed
• 14-Ounce Can Chickpeas rinsed & drained
• 1 Chipotle Pepper from can
• 2 TBsp Cilantro chopped
• 1 Garlic Clove minced
• ½ tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 Sweet Potato cubed
• 3 Limes Wedged
• 1 TBsp Avocado Oil
• ½ tsp Oregano dried
• 1 ½ tsp Chili Powder
• Gluten-Free tortillas (I use slices of jicama when I want something refreshing)
• 2 tsp Sea Salt
• 1 ½ tsp Paprika, smoked
• ¼ Cup Cashews Roasted unsalted
• 1 ½ tsp Cumin, ground
• ½ Cup Water
• 2 TBsp Nutritional Yeast (they have flavored options the garlic or herb would be best)

Directions:

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. Place cauliflower, sweet potatoes, and chickpeas in a bowl. Toss with oil, 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1 tsp paprika, garlic powder, oregano, yeast, and ½ tsp salt. Place on a baking sheet that has been lined with your choice of non-stick preventative (I have been using silicone mats and I am loving it). Roast for 25-30 minutes flipping vegetables about half-way through. Add the black beans and toss. Let cook for an additional 5 minutes or until black beans are cooked. In the meantime in a blender add all remaining ingredients except avocado, cilantro, and limes. Blend on high until sauce like texture has been reached. Mash up Avocado and add the juice of 1 lime (set aside the remaining wedges for others to use once tacos are assembled). Assemble tacos and enjoy! 

Need a Helping Hand?

A happy and healthy life is closer than you may think. Our health is something that we all have to deal with daily, and when we don’t feel our best, it shows. If you are tired of just making it through your day then you NEED to start investing in your health today! You are not alone on this journey. If you ever need any help I am always here to do just that. Even if it is something as small as just acting as a sounding board. Do you have any questions or concerns I can help you with? Feel free to contact me directly at [email protected] or you can even book a one-on-one call with me. Be sure to subscribe to gain access to tons of free goodies and check back daily for more great recipes and information!