When it comes to the complex connection of the ethereal network of hormones that run through our body tying each organ system together, we have none other than the Endocrine system to thank. Hormones can be thought of as the chemical spirit within our body, as many of the concepts we attribute to the soul are functions of the Endocrine. Functions such as creating our temperament, appearance, character traits, and preferences may be linked to their short- and long-term effect on our unique essence. For this reason, the ancients linked this multifaceted system with the spiritual body through their understanding of energy centers in the body known as chakras. Each major Endocrine organ overlaps with 1 of the 7 major chakras throughout the body.
This makes sense, since the Endocrine system communicates with each organ, but is first stimulated from the nervous system. Meaning that before any hormone is secreted into the blood it receives its message first from the electricity that moves through the mind. Our nervous system is stimulated by our thoughts and feelings, and our thoughts and feelings are affected by the hormones secreted from each organ. Many organs release their own hormone, and many body cells in a variety of tissues are affected by the hormones in the blood.
Insulin, for example, is a well-known hormone responsible for pulling sugars out of the blood and into the body cells to be burned for energy. When it is present it blocks a variety of hormones from activating, one of these is growth hormone (GH). It doesn't matter how much sugar is in the blood for GH to be inhibited. This is why fasting is not only a potent spiritual practice but also incredibly healing for the body.
When it comes to the often referred to sex hormones - for example, estrogen and testosterone - they are mainly going to affect sexual organs and reproductive function. Yet these still will communicate with various cells of the body, having a lot to do with the development of the typical sex differentials, also called secondary sex characteristics. Herbal medicine does not supply the hormones but instead may provide an essential precursor to the production of them in the body, or in some cases will resolve a pre-existing problem with organs (such as adrenals or liver) to improve the ability to produce them.
Notable herbs in the Endocrine support categories are referred to as adaptogens, as they are restorative to the adrenals mainly, but also various endocrine-connected organs. An herb like Shatavari is an ayurvedic herb known as the goddess of medicine for its ability to support female reproductive health. Yet it also can be restorative for the adrenal glands in both men and women. In cases of chronic fatigue in tandem with issues affecting the moon cycle, menopause, or fertility it is extremely helpful.
When it comes to Men's hormonal health, Saw palmetto berry is one of the best, having the ability to nourish sperm production, and support the production of testosterone, being one of the best herbs for prostate health. Yet its mechanism of functioning may be linked to its liver clearance, getting stagnant hormones out of the blood. As you will recall the existence of hormones in the blood is enough to stop the healthy production of others.
Some other Endocrine-supportive herbs are Astragalus, Ashwagandha, Schizandra, Ginseng, Eleuthero, Damiana, Rhodiola, Pulsatilla, and Lions Mane. Each of these is going to affect the Adrenals, Kidney, and Liver primarily. While also having secondary effects on blood, immunity, and cognition. Many adaptogenic herbs will be stimulating, but not all of them. For example, Pulsatilla is reviving to many glands in the body but is also a soothing nervines. A nervine being an herb that calms the nervous system is not directly helpful to the Endocrine, yet still in achieving its goal can lend itself to hormonal health.
Another vital organ in the endocrine system is the Thyroid, an often concern when working in the herbal clinic. The Thyroid is largely important in metabolism, and fuel supply, or in other words how much energy we burn vs store as fat. Low thyroid function therefore is a sluggish energy, while an overactive thyroid can feel like anxiety. Each hormone produced by the thyroid is made with iodine, so a lack of good iodine sources will affect it profoundly. The best source of iodine is seaweeds such as Irish Moss, Kelp, Dulse, and Bladderwrack. And since each cell in the body interacts with the metabolism, Iodine is a vital ingredient in overall healthy hormonal function. This is why mountain communities the world over have gone to lengths to secure sources of sea salts, and sea plants. Still, even with proper Iodine in the system, body cells being composed of fats, will be unresponsive to hormonal messages if fat is low, or not healthy fats(EFA).
The conversation about hormones and their effects on the body can go on and on. Just as the herbs that are directly or indirectly helpful are extensive. A practice of focusing on each chakra while breathing into the space, and sending vital energy is one way the ancients promoted good health and longevity.
You can learn this and much more at the next class offering, see you there.
Written by,
Akil-Kuumba Kelley
Frontline Farming Clinical Herbalist
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