Chasteberry (Vitex agnus castus) is generally used as a woman’s herb. It can be beneficial to reduce the problems associated with PMS, can help regulate a woman’s cycles, and can be helpful to alleviate menstrual cramps.

Chasteberry has been used since ancient times, and was written about in the works of Hippocrates and his contemporaries.

Black Cohosh Root (Cimicifuga racemosa) has long been used by Native Americans for a variety of purposes, both internally and externally. Because it was recognized as helpful for women, it was also called “squaw root.”

It has some benefit as a nerve tonic and for arthritis suffers, but is most commonly used to treat problems associated with menopause, menstruation, and has been used before childbirth. However, it is important to note that black cohosh should NOT be used as a single herb or a major constituent by pregnant or lactating women, and for those who do use it, the body should have a break if it is used for 6 months continuously.

Nutritionally, black cohosh provides isoflavones, isoferulic acid, salicylic acid,  tannins, resin, fatty acid, and simple and complex sugars.

Damiana (Turnera diffusa) is usually first thought of as a woman’s herb, but it has a variety of uses. It can be beneficial to lift mood and is helpful to those with depression, and is also often used as an aphrodisiac herb. It has a generally stimulant effect, and also works in a very mild way as both a laxative and diuretic.

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is one of the most popular herbs in Chinese medicine. Used primarily as a woman’s herb, it is beneficial for various female hormone-related problems, including menstrual irregularities, PMS, and hot flashes. It is also a blood purifying tonic, and has anti-inflammatory properties as well as some pain-killing ability. It improves circulation by dilating veins and helps suppress allergic responses. It is also antiseptic and kills bacteria as well as fungus.

Dong Quai can commonly be found in conjunction with ginseng, as it is a popular herb for women’s problems in Chinese medicine.