
Struggling with unexplained endometriosis symptoms such as period pain, heavy periods, or fertility challenges?1 You’re not alone!
How many women have endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a silent disruptor affecting millions of women worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), endometriosis impacts 1 in 10 (190 million) women of reproductive age and girls globally. As of March 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that endometriosis affects 1 in 10 (190 million) women of reproductive age and girls globally.2 Now, in March 2025, the number may be even higher, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and solutions.
It’s time to break the silence, spread awareness this March—Endometriosis Awareness Month—and explore solutions that bring relief from endometriosis pain while empowering those affected.
What is endometriosis?
It is a chronic condition that occurs when tissue like the uterine lining grows outside the uterus—often in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or pelvic lining.3
While conventional endometriosis treatment includes hormonal therapies and surgical interventions4, many individuals seek complementary approaches to manage their symptoms. Phytochemicals—also known as plant chemicals—are bioactive compounds found in plants that have gained attention for their potential therapeutic effects on endometriosis.
Key Phytochemicals and Their Plant Sources:
- Quercetin: A flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables, including apples, onions, and berries, quercetin possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies have highlighted quercetin's potential to reduce inflammation and inhibit the proliferation of endometrial cells.5
- Curcumin: It is renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies suggest that curcumin may suppress the proliferation of endometrial cells and reduce estradiol production, a form of estrogen implicated in endometriosis progression.6
- Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG): EGCG has demonstrated anti-angiogenic and anti-proliferative properties. Research indicates that EGCG can inhibit the growth of endometrial tissue and may reduce lesion size in endometriosis.7
Medicinal Plants Beneficial for Endometriosis:
- Ashoka (Saraca Indica): Rich in quercetin, Ashoka is a uterine tonic that may help manage symptoms of endometriosis like cramps and heavy bleeding through its anti-inflammatory and estrogen-modulating properties.8
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Beyond curcumin, turmeric contains other bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic effects. Regular consumption of turmeric, whether through dietary inclusion or supplementation, may help manage inflammation associated with endometriosis.9
- Green Tea (Camellia sinensis): Rich in catechins like EGCG, green tea offers antioxidant benefits and may inhibit the growth of endometrial tissue. Incorporating green tea into daily routines could provide supportive benefits for those with endometriosis.10
Before incorporating these medicinal plants with phytochemicals into your diet or endometriosis supplement routine, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional, as they may interact with medications or may not be suitable for everyone. While more research is needed, current findings offer hope that these plant chemicals could complement endometriosis management.
Disclaimer:
The information provided is solely for educational purposes. This content does not replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult a qualified healthcare professional for any medical queries or concerns. BeatNaturally does not promote or suggest specific tests, doctors, procedures, viewpoints, or details mentioned in the content.
Sources:
- NHS - Endometriosis
- World Health Organization - Endometriosis
- NHS - Endometriosis
- NHS - Endometriosis
- PubMed Central (nih.gov) - An Overview on the Conservative Management of Endometriosis from a Naturopathic Perspective: Phytochemicals and Medicinal Plants
- PubMed Central (nih.gov) - Curcumin inhibits endometriosis endometrial cells by reducing estradiol production
- PubMed Central (nih.gov) - Plants as source of new therapies for endometriosis: a review of preclinical and clinical studies
- PubMed Central (nih.gov) - Effect of Saraca asoca (Asoka) on estradiol-induced keratinizing metaplasia in rat uterus
- PubMed Central (nih.gov) - Curcumin and Endometriosis
- PubMed Central (nih.gov) - Green Tea and Benign Gynecologic Disorders: A New Trick for An Old Beverage?