How Naturopathic Medicine Can Help with Endometriosis by Dr Annika Vels, ND
- Dr Annika Vels, ND
- May 26
- 6 min read
Endometriosis is a chronic condition that affects millions of women worldwide, characterized by
the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining (endometrium) outside the uterus. When this
tissue implants on abdominal structures outside of the uterus, its causes symptoms such as
general abdominal pain, heavy and painful menstruation, painful intercourse, infertility, fatigue,
anemia, and a variety of other symptoms depending on where lesions have grown.
The available conventional treatments are limited, consisting of surgery to remove lesions,
hormonal therapies such as birth control, and limited pain management. Naturopathic medicine
can help with endometriosis by focusing on the root causes of the disease and providing a
treatment approach that offers lasting and sustainable treatment outcomes.
What Is Endometriosis?
Causes
Endometriosis is an estrogen-mediated, chronic, and relapsing condition presenting with immune
system disruption, local hormone disruption and chronic inflammation. The exact cause of
endometriosis is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development.
Retrograde Menstruation: This theory suggests that menstrual blood flows backward
through the fallopian tubes into the pelvic cavity, carrying endometrial cells that implant
and grow outside the uterus.
Genetics and Anatomy: Women with a family history of endometriosis are more likely
to develop the condition, suggesting a genetic or epigenetic predisposition.
Immune System Dysfunction: Some research indicates that a compromised immune
system may fail to identify and destroy the tissue growing outside the uterus.
Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain chemicals, such as dioxins, may contribute
to the development of endometriosis.
Pathophysiology
The cells responsible for creating new endometrial tissue start to signal incorrectly, due to
epigenetic abnormalities and environmental factors. In particular, the local immune system starts
responding incorrectly, causing the proliferation and dysregulation of immune cells such as
macrophages and Treg (regulatory) cells, which leads to increased amounts of inflammation and
increased pain signalling. Additionally, the dysregulation of Treg cells means that the usual
downregulation of the immune response when necessary no longer occurs, leading to unopposed
tissue implantation and proliferation in areas where usually that growth would be suppressed.
This pattern of Treg cell dysregulation is also seen in many other autoimmune or auto
inflammatory disorders. This incorrect signalling allows the endometrial tissue to attach itself to
parts of the abdomen outside of the uterus, and to grow without the limits that normal
endometrial tissue has.
Hormonally, this causes an excessive production of estrogen leading to inflammation, and
progesterone receptor deficiency leading to progesterone resistance. This results in a pattern of
estrogen dominance and hormone imbalance, which is responsible for many of the debilitating
symptoms associated with endometriosis. As endometriosis responds to systemic inflammation,
relapses can be triggered by stress, the menstrual cycle, illnesses and injuries, among other
causes.
How Naturopathic Medicine Can Help with Endometriosis
Naturopathic medicine is a system of healthcare that integrates natural remedies, lifestyle
modifications, and preventative care to support the body’s innate ability to heal itself.
Naturopaths emphasize patient education; empowering individuals to make informed decisions
about their health.
In the case of endometriosis, naturopathic medicine offers a wide array of treatments to address
the underlying causes of endometriosis and to address its interaction with the rest of the body’s
systems, such as the immune system and inflammation as outlined above. These therapies can be
used alongside conventional treatments or as an alternative, depending on the severity of the
condition and an individual’s personal preferences. Treatment should address not only hormonal
balance but also address the immune and inflammatory factors described above.
Treatment starts with an in-depth analysis of a patient’s individual presentation and life
circumstances, and may include a combination of:
Diet
One of the most significant contributions of naturopathic medicine to endometriosis management
is dietary intervention. Certain foods can either exacerbate or alleviate the symptoms of
endometriosis, and dietary changes can play a critical role in managing inflammation, hormone
balance, and immune system function.
Anti-inflammatory Diet: Chronic inflammation is a hallmark of endometriosis. Naturopathic practitioners may recommend an anti-inflammatory diet rich in foods that help reduce inflammation. These include:
o Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts,
omega-3s can help reduce inflammation and improve hormone regulation.
o Fruits and Vegetables: High in antioxidants and phytonutrients, fruits and
vegetables help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
o Whole Grains: Foods like brown rice, quinoa, and oats provide fiber, which
supports digestive health and reduces systemic inflammation.
o Turmeric and Ginger: These spices, among others, contain compounds that
possess anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate pain and discomfort
associated with endometriosis.
Identify and Eliminate Food Sensitivities: Because endometriosis has an immune system component, addressing the gut’s involvement in immunity can help to reduce symptoms and avoid flare-ups.
o Elimination Diet: An elimination diet involves removing foods from your diet
you suspect your body can’t tolerate well. The foods are later reintroduced, one at
a time, while you look for symptoms that show a reaction.
o IgG Testing: IgG testing is a blood test that looks at the immune system’s
reaction to a wide variety of foods (about 200 different foods, depending on the
test) and can identify food sensitivities that might not be otherwise discernible.
o Gluten: Even when not celiac, some individuals with endometriosis may benefit
from avoiding gluten as it can contribute to inflammation and immune system
dysfunction. Non-celiac gluten sensitivity occurs more often in individuals with
endometriosis than the general population.
Herbal Medicine
Herbs can be used to regulate hormones, manage pain, decrease systemic inflammation, and
support metabolism among many other functions. Some herbal actions that can be used to
manage endometriosis include:
Hormonal Management: ex. Chastetree: Chastetree is an herb that is commonly used
for hormonal balance. By promoting progesterone production, it can help regulate the
menstrual cycle and reduce symptoms of estrogen dominance.
Regulate Flow: ex. Capsella: herbs with astringent properties like Capsella can help to
decrease heaviness of menstrual flow.
Liver Function: ex. Milk Thistle: like other hepatoprotective herbs, milk thistle supports
liver function, which is important for metabolizing hormones, including estrogen. Estrogen dominance is often implicated in the development and progression of endometriosis.
Herbal medicine should be used under the guidance of a qualified naturopathic practitioner to
ensure safety and efficacy, as herbs can interact with medications or other treatments, and can
have dangerous side effects if used incorrectly.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a component of Traditional Chinese Medicine that regulates the flow of energy
(Qi) through the body, as well as locally increasing blood flow to reduce inflammation and pain.
Numerous studies suggest that acupuncture may help manage endometriosis by:
Reducing Pain: Acupuncture has been shown to reduce pain associated with
endometriosis, including pelvic pain and menstrual cramps.
Promoting Blood Flow: Acupuncture can enhance blood circulation to the pelvic area,
potentially reducing the formation of adhesions, improving overall uterine health, and
stimulating proper organ function at specific times throughout the menstrual cycle.
Reduce Heavy Flow: Using Traditional Chinese Medicine principles, acupuncture can
help to regulate the flow of blood and fluids within the body.
Lifestyle
Naturopathic medicine emphasizes the importance of lifestyle factors in managing chronic
conditions. For women with endometriosis, the following lifestyle modifications can be
beneficial:
Stress Management: Chronic stress can exacerbate inflammation and hormone imbalances.
Practices such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and
alleviate pain associated with endometriosis. Low-impact exercises like walking,
swimming, or cycling are often recommended.
Sleep Hygiene: Quality sleep is essential for hormone regulation and overall health.
Practicing good sleep hygiene, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and
creating a calming bedtime routine, can improve sleep quality and support the body’s
healing processes.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps flush toxins from the body and supports
healthy kidney function. Ensuring proper electrolyte balance is also essential.
Homeopathy
Homeopathy is a system of medicine based on the principle of "like cures like." A trained
homeopath may use remedies that are individualized based on a person’s specific symptoms,
emotional state, and overall constitution. While research on homeopathy for endometriosis is
limited, some individuals find relief from symptoms like pain, fatigue, and mood swings through
homeopathic treatments.
Conclusion
Endometriosis is a complex and often debilitating condition, but naturopathic medicine offers a
holistic, patient-centered approach to managing its symptoms and addressing the root causes. By
incorporating dietary changes, herbal remedies, acupuncture, lifestyle modifications, and other
natural therapies, individuals with endometriosis can find relief and sustainable ways to manage
their condition.
While naturopathic medicine can be an effective adjunct to conventional treatments, it is
important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatments or health
products to ensure safety and effective outcomes.
