The Earth continually offers its gifts, and herbs are a powerful example of how nature supports our well-being and invites feelings of gratitude, awe, and respect. Throughout history, herbalists explored the natural world to create preparations intended to support balance in body and mind—especially when we feel out of sync with ourselves.
Our bodies are wise and wondrous vessels programmed for well-being. Bodies possess an innate propensity to reclaim homeostasis; we just have to remove the obstacles and cultivate a restorative environment. Most of the elements we need are already within, or growing all around us.
The call of our bodies will naturally vary as we flow from phase to phase of our monthly cycle. Herbal formulas and supplementation for each Phase will depend on the unique presentation of your cycle. The formulas in this article are general recommendations, but you should always consult with a licensed herbalist to make sure you are taking the appropriate formulas for your condition.
Herbal Remedies and Therapeutic Intentions for Every Phase
Blood Phase
- Herbal formula:
A key principle in traditional herbal practice is to support healthy circulation and ease occasional discomfort. In cases of noticeable flow changes, some herbs have traditionally been used to support balance. A classical formula, such as Tao Hong Si Wu Tang, has been traditionally used for these purposes in Chinese herbalism.
Note: Some herbalists prefer to abstain from herbs altogether during this Phase. Always consult a licensed medical herbalist to find the right formula for you
- Intention:
To support balanced flow and healthy energy movement.
Yin Phase
- Herbal formula:
Four Substance is traditionally used to help replenish and support energy after your cycle, creating a foundation for a more balanced and harmonious month ahead.
- Intention:
Nourish Blood, tonify the Kidneys
Yang Phase
- Herbal formula:
If you’re supporting reproductive wellness, this is traditionally considered a time to focus on nourishment rather than movement, to help create a supportive internal environment. A classical formula like Bu Shen Gu Chong Wan (Tonify the Kidneys and Consolidate the Penetrating Vessel Pill) has historically been used in this context within traditional Chinese medicine.
- Intention:
Tonify the Kidneys, strengthen the Spleen, resolve Dampness
Qi Phase
- Herbal formula:
Free & Easy Wanderer is a classical formula traditionally used to encourage the smooth flow of Liver Qi, as described in Chinese herbalism.
- Intention:
Move Qi, encourage free flow of Liver-Qi, invigorate Blood, warm the Uterus
You can access a plethora of cycle stabilizing educational resources (such as phase-specific nutrition, acupressure points, herbal supplements, and mind-body exercises) in our online course! Can’t wait to see you there!
Care Consideration: Just a reminder that the above information is not a substitute for medical care and is not a substitute for medical advice or recommendations from a healthcare provider. This information is not intended to treat, mitigate, or cure any disease. That said, we encourage you to connect with an Acupuncturist in your community to learn more about this and other Traditional Chinese Medicine options. If you’ve got questions about Chinese herbal medicine or getting started with an Acupuncturist, feel free to connect with us at hello@mydaolabs.com.
Hannah Fries is a California-based licensed acupuncturist and herbalist (L.Ac.), writer, and Integrative Body Psychotherapy allied professional. She seeks to discover & alchemize the psycho-emotional and spiritual roots of disharmony in the physical body to help her clients transform the obstacles that interfere with their innate healing capacity. Find out more about Hannah and her work on her website at https://www.friespirit.com or on Instagram @friespirit.
