Estrogen and Breast Cancer
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from: Juanita Makinson
Posted on: April 12, 1998

Being a high risk for breast cancer I cannot take estrogen as a hormone replacement. What herb might give me this naturally which I could grow at home and perhaps make tea from. A German doctor friend of mine believes if I grow "hops" this ! will be the answer. May I have your opinion please or other suggestions?

Since we are not medical practitioners, we supply the following information for your research and study only. A medical practitioner should be consulted to analyze your treatment according to your medical history.

Hops reputedly has estrogenic effects, and is also a sedative. It is possible that if you consumed enough hops to realize its estrogenic effects, you would be sleepy most of the time!

In herbal medicine, rather than replacing HRT with herbs, we want to support the individual where support is required, using herbs, diet and exercise. If there is a risk of heart problems because of high blood pressure or family history, the heart can be supported with Motherwort and Hawthorn. A risk of osteoporosis can be supported with nettle, horsetail and dandelion leaves. See our Q & A entry on "Estrogen Replacement" for suggestions for healthy menopausal years.

Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris), Red Raspberry (Rubus idaeus), Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) are herbs reputed to be helpful in balancing hormones in menopause. These can be grown at home to make teas.

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