A large number of young women suffer from high testosterone levels or Hyperandrogenism, also known as excess male hormones. It can lead to a variety of problems such as facial hair growth, acne, irregular periods, weight gain and fertility problems.
High levels of testosterone in women indicate multiple hormones that get out of balance. One of such hormonal imbalance disorders is PCOS. However, not all women with PCOS have excess androgens in their body.
If you are looking to find relief from high androgen levels (Hyperandrogenism) in a natural way, then Ayurveda can help you out.
Ayurvedic treatment is highly effective to lower androgen levels in women, provide relief from uncomfortable symptoms and restore hormonal balance.
In this post, we will go over symptoms and causes of high levels of testosterone in women, connection between PCOS and testosterone and Ayurvedic natural treatment options to lower testosterone levels in women.
Testosterone Levels in Women
In Ayurveda, testosterone is considered to be a “male” hormone, responsible for qualities such as strength and virility. It plays a major role in many bodily functions, including muscle growth, production of new blood cells, immune system response, bone density, sex drive and balance of other reproductive hormones.
However, testosterone is not only found in men; women also produce small amounts of the hormone. In women, testosterone is produced in small amounts by the ovaries and adrenal glands.
Testosterone levels in women fluctuate throughout the month in accordance with the menstrual cycle. A woman’s testosterone levels may also increase during pregnancy and decline after menopause.
Women typically have naturally lower levels of testosterone than men, falling in the range of 9–55 ng/dL. For men, normal testosterone levels range in the 300–1000 ng/dL. Thus, usually testosterone levels in women are lower than in men.
What Causes High Testosterone Levels in Women?
The exact cause of hyperandrogenism varies from woman to woman as there are several possible reasons of high testosterone levels in women:
Polycystic ovary syndrome
PCOS is a condition that affects the ovaries and can cause an increase in testosterone production. Common symptoms of PCOS include irregular periods, unwanted hair growth (hirsutism), and acne. PCOS can be managed and reversed with holistic treatment options that Ayurveda offers. Go here to know about Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS.
Stress
One of the most common causes of high testosterone levels in women is stress. When we’re stressed, our bodies releases a stress hormone called cortisol.
High Cortisol levels due to excessive stress can also stimulate the adrenal glands or ovaries to produce more Testosterone in women.
Weight gain
Carrying around extra weight can also lead to higher testosterone levels. One study showed that obese women had up to 30 percent more testosterone than women of normal weight.
Fat cells also produce an enzyme called aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen (female hormone). So, the more fat cells you have, the more estrogen your body can produce. This can lead to a condition called estrogen dominance, in which there’s too much estrogen and low progesterone levels. This can cause a range of symptoms, including weight gain, mood swings, and breast tenderness.
Medications & Supplements
Certain medications can also lead to an increase in testosterone levels. These can include steroids, which are often used to treat conditions such as inflammation and asthma. In some cases, testosterone replacement therapy may also be used to treat low testosterone levels. However, this treatment can also cause an increase in testosterone levels.
There are also a number of supplements that claim to boost testosterone levels. However, many of these products are not backed by scientific evidence and may not be effective.
Coming Off Birth Control Pills
If you’ve been taking birth control pills, you may experience a temporary rise in testosterone levels when you stop taking them. This is because the hormones in birth control pills can suppress ovulation, which can lead to a build-up of testosterone in the body.
Genetics & Demographics
In some cases, high testosterone levels may simply be due to normal variations within the population. This means that there is no underlying medical condition or use of medication causing the high levels. Instead, the levels may just be higher than average for no specific reason. This is more likely to occur in younger women, as testosterone levels tend to decline with age.
Tumors of Adrenal Glands or Ovaries
High levels of testosterone in women can also indicate the presence of tumors on the adrenal glands or the ovaries, the main production center for these hormones in women. While testosterone levels typically decline in both women and men with age, menopause can produce deceptive results.
What are the Symptoms of High Testosterone in women?
Signs of high testosterone in women include:
- Hair loss on the scalp
- Irregular Periods
- Fertility Problems, Difficulty in getting pregnant or Infertility
- Hirsutism or excess body hair (especially upper lip, chin, chest and abdomen)
- Acne
- Oily skin
- Increased body odor
- Sleep disorders or insomnia
- Irritability, aggression
- Decreased breast size
- Increased muscle mass
- Deepening of the voice
It is important to note that having high testosterone levels does not necessarily mean that a woman will experience all of the possible symptoms listed above. Some women with high testosterone levels may only experience a few of these symptoms, while others may not experience any at all.
Additionally, the severity of symptoms can vary greatly from one woman to the next. If you are concerned that you may have high testosterone levels, it is important to speak to a doctor or Ayurvedic Practitioner for further evaluation.
Ayurvedic Treatment to Lower Testosterone levels in women
In Ayurveda, high testosterone levels in women result from an imbalance of digestive fire, which leads to build up of toxins “Ama” in her body. This further blocks the circulation and affects dosha balance.
Usually, high testosterone levels involve Vata Pitta dosha imbalance leading to period, hair and skin problems. If Kapha dosha is also involved, it leads to weight gain and mucus related issues.
The goal of Ayurvedic treatment for hyperandrogenism is to restore the hormonal balance and fertility.
Ayurvedic treatment for high testosterone levels involves Ayurvedic medicines, herbal remedies, diet, yoga and lifestyle changes. This holistic approach helps to detox and flush out excess testosterone, ignite digestive fire for balanced nutrition, regulate menstrual cycle for regular ovulation and fertility, and reduce stress for mental wellness and hormonal balance.
Here are the steps involved in Ayurvedic treatment for high testosterone level:
- Detoxification to get rid of toxins and excess testosterone in the body.
- Ignite digestive fire to promote digestion and weight loss.
- Hormone Balance to support regular ovulation & boost fertility.
- Promote Mental wellness to Reduce Stress & Testosterone production.
- Rejuvenation with rasayana to boost immunity & raise energy level.
- Balanced nutrition with individual specific dietary supplements and foods.
- Yoga, Pranayama & Meditation to promote bone health, weight loss & physical strength.
Ayurvedic Medicine to Lower Testosterone levels
Several herbal remedies and formulations are included in Ayurvedic medicine to effectively and permanently reduce testosterone level, boost fertility and promote detoxification.
Ayurvedic herbs work by balancing hormones, strengthening the reproductive system, and promoting mental wellness. Here are some of the most popular Ayurvedic medicine for high Androgen levels in women:
- Ashoka
- Lodhra
- Ashwagandha (withania somnifera)
- Shatavari
- Bala
- Kachnar Guggulu
- Triphala
- Chasteberry
- Daruhaldi
- Licorice
- Red Clover
These are just a few of the many different Ayurvedic herb that can be used to reduce testosterone levels in women. If you are interested in trying any of these herbs, it is important to talk to your doctor first to make sure they are safe for you to take.
Ayurvedic Diet to Reduce Androgen Levels in Women
Ayurveda states that one should take in a wholesome diet that includes all six tastes “Rasa” to maintain Dosha balance. Also, freshly cooked meals that are light and easy to digest prevent build up of toxins in the body.
Ayurvedic Diet
Here are Ayurvedic diet guidelines that you should follow for hyperandrogenism:
- Prefer Astringent, Sweet, and Bitter tasting vegetables, fruits, and grains.
- Do not hold off hunger or delay your meals. Always eat on the same time every day.
- Drink a lot of water to keep yourself hydrated at all times. Prefer cooling and normal temperature beverages such as coconut water, still water, and herbal teas.
- Avoid excess salt, chilies, spices, sour foods, and pickles.
- Reduce the use of caffeine, stimulants, refined sugar, and cold drinks.
- Stop consuming junk food, and carbonated drinks.
- Avoid untimely meals, multiple meals, late night foods, and snacks.
- Stop the consumption of processed foods and packaged foods.
- Remove and avoid smoking, alcohol and nicotine.
Best Foods to Lower Testosterone in Women
It’s no secret that diet can have a big impact on hormone level. And when it comes to testosterone, there are certain foods that can help to lower levels in women.
Phytoestrogens
One of the first things to consider is estrogen rich foods or phytoestrogens. Foods such as beans, lentils, nuts, seeds and contain plant-based estrogens. These can bind to testosterone receptors and reduce testosterone production. So, including phytoestrogens in your diet may help to lower your testosterone levels.
Healthy Fats
Nuts and seeds are another good choice. They’re a great source of healthy fats, which are important for hormone production. In one study, women who ate a diet rich in monounsaturated fats had lower testosterone levels than those who ate a diet high in unhealthy fats.
Oils to prefer are Ghee, Olive Oil, and Coconut Oil.
Another food that may help is flaxseed. Flaxseed contains lignans, which are also thought to have estrogenic effects.
Dietary Fiber
Finally, make sure to eat plenty of fiber. Fiber helps to regulate hormone levels and can reduce the amount of testosterone that’s reabsorbed back into the body.
Eat vegetables and fruits that help to balance hormones and reduce excess andogrens. Some examples are: Apricots, banana, cherry, coconut, kiwi, lemon, carrots, green beans, leeks, spinach, oats, quinoa and rice.
If you’re looking to lower your testosterone levels, including these foods in your diet may help. Just remember that diet is just one part of the equation – other lifestyle factors, such as exercise and sleep, are also important.
Ayurvedic Lifestyle Tips to Correct High Testosterone Levels
One of the main goals of Ayurveda is to promote harmony between the different aspects of the self. This includes balancing the hormones.
Reduce Stress
One of the best things you can do to lower your testosterone levels is to reduce stress. Stress can cause your body to produce more of the hormone, so finding ways to relax and de-stress can be very helpful. Consider things like yoga, meditation, or even just taking some time out for yourself every day to relax.
Proper Nutrition
Another important way to lower your testosterone levels is to make sure you’re getting proper nutrition. Eating a healthy, balanced diet will help to regulate hormone levels and keep them in check. Make sure you’re getting plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and avoiding processed foods as much as possible.
Exercise
Exercise is also important for lowering testosterone levels. Not only does it help to reduce stress, but it can also help to regulate hormone production. Try to get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day, and consider things like weightlifting and cardio to help boost your results.
Regular Sleep
Getting regular sleep is also important for lowering testosterone levels. This hormone is produced in the body during periods of deep sleep, so making sure you’re getting enough rest can be very helpful. Consider going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, and aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night.
Best Exercise to Lower Testosterone Levels in Women
Exercise can help to lower testosterone levels in women, but it is important to choose the right type of exercise. Too much high-intensity exercise can actually increase testosterone levels, so it is important to find a balance.
Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and strength training are both great options for helping to lower testosterone levels. Additionally, it is important to avoid excessive heat exposure, as this can also lead to higher testosterone levels.
Yoga can be a great way to lower testosterone levels in women. Certain yoga poses can help to increase blood flow and reduce stress, which can lead to lower testosterone levels. Additionally, yoga can help to improve flexibility and balance, which can also help to reduce testosterone levels.
By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure that your exercise routine is helping to lower your testosterone levels rather than increasing them.
Yoga Poses for High Testosterone in Women
By practicing yoga regularly, you can help to keep your testosterone levels in check and improve your overall health. Here are some of the yoga poses that are highly effective for hormone balance in women:
1. Cobra Pose
2. Downward-Facing Dog Pose
3. Triangle Pose
4. Half Camel Pose
5. Bridge Pose
6. Seated Forward Bend Pose
7. Legs Up the Wall Pose
8. Supported Shoulder stand Pose
9. Fish Pose
10. Chanting Om
Takeaway
If you have high testosterone levels, it is important to speak to a doctor to find out the cause. In some cases, treatment may be necessary to manage symptoms or reduce the effects of the condition. However, in other cases, you may be able to manage your symptoms and find relief with simple changes in your diet and lifestyle.
Ayurveda offers effective natural ways for hormone balance and to specifically reduce testosterone in women. Ayurvedic diet, lifestyle and medication provides a holistic natural avenue for permanent relief from health symptoms at the root cause level.
Consult with Medhya’s Ayurvedic Health Experts to get your personalised health plan involving prescription for Ayurvedic medicine, diet, yoga and lifestyle guidelines.
FAQ
1. Which Ayurvedic medicine can reduce testosterone in females?
There are a number of Ayurvedic medicines that can be used to reduce testosterone levels in females. One of the most popular is Ashwagandha, which is an herb that has been used for centuries in India for its medicinal properties. Ashwagandha is thought to work by blocking the production of testosterone, and it has been shown to be effective in reducing testosterone levels in both animal and human studies. Another option is Vajikarana therapy, which uses a combination of herbs, dietary changes, and yoga to help regulate hormone levels. A number of clinical trials have shown that Vajikarana therapy can significantly reduce testosterone levels in women with PCOS, and it may also be effective in reducing testosterone levels in other women as well. If you are looking for an Ayurvedic medicine to reduce testosterone levels in females, Ashwagandha or Vajikarana therapy may be a good option for you.
2. Can Ayurveda treat Hirsutism?
According to Ayurveda, hirsutism is a condition caused by an imbalance of the three doshas: vata, pitta, and kapha. While there are many possible causes of this imbalance, some of the most common include stress, poor diet, and hormonal disorders. Ayurveda recommends a holistic approach to treating hirsutism, which includes both lifestyle changes and herbal remedies. Making simple changes to your diet, such as increasing your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, can help to reduce the symptoms of hirsutism. Herbal remedies, such as shatavari and licorice root, can also be effective in treating the underlying cause of the condition. When used together, these Ayurvedic treatments can help to restore balance to the body and reduce the symptoms of hirsutism.
3. How do I get rid of Hyperandrogenism?
Hyperandrogenism, also known as androgen excess, is a condition that occurs when a woman produces too much testosterone. As testosterone is a male hormone, this can lead to a range of masculinizing effects, such as facial hair growth, deepening of the voice, and irregular periods. Although hyperandrogenism can be caused by certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), it can also be due to the use of certain medications, such as steroids. In some cases, the exact cause of hyperandrogenism may be unknown.
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine originating from India that seeks to treat the whole person, rather than just the symptoms of disease. One of the guiding principles of Ayurveda is the concept of balance. This means that when one system in the body is out of balance, it can lead to disharmony throughout the entire body. Therefore, in order to treat hyperandrogenism effectively, it is important to first identify and address any underlying imbalances. There are a number of Ayurvedic herbs and medicines that can help to promote balance in the body and reduce excess testosterone production.
4. Why would a woman’s testosterone be high?
Testosterone levels can become imbalanced due to a variety of factors, including stress, poor diet, and certain medical conditions. In some cases, a woman may have high levels of testosterone due to a medical condition such as polycystic ovary syndrome or adrenal gland disorder.
When this happens, it can lead to a range of problems such as weight gain, fatigue, and low libido. In women, high testosterone levels can also cause irregular periods and difficulty conceiving.
High levels of testosterone can also cause physical changes such as excess body hair and acne, as well as emotional changes such as irritability and mood swings.
If you are concerned about your testosterone levels, do consult with a qualified health practitioner, who can guide you with proper testing and treatment for hormonal imbalance. By restoring balance to your hormones, you can help improve your overall health and well-being.
You can also look into Medhya Herbals’ Ayurvedic treatment for Hormonal Imbalances in PCOS and Menopause here.
5. Does high testosterone mean PCOS?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects women of childbearing age. The main symptom of PCOS is irregular periods, but other pcos symptoms can include weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth (hirsutism).
PCOS is often associated with high levels of testosterone, but it’s important to remember that not all women with PCOS have high testosterone levels. In fact, the cause of PCOS is still unknown, and further research is needed to determine how testosterone levels may play a role in the development of the condition.
In the meantime, Ayurveda provides effective natural treatment for PCOS. So if you’re concerned about your hormone levels, be sure to talk to your doctor about all of your options.
6. Do Women have Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone that is important for many body processes, including the development of the male sex organs, the growth of facial and body hair, and the deepening of the voice during puberty. In women, testosterone plays a role in maintaining bone density, sex drive, and fertility.
Too much or too little testosterone can cause problems. In women, high levels of testosterone may lead to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a condition that causes irregular periods, excess hair growth, and acne. PCOS can also make it difficult to get pregnant. Low levels of testosterone may cause fatigue, depression, and decreased sex drive.
7. What are normal levels of Testosterone in women?
Normal levels of testosterone in women vary depending on age. In general, younger women have higher levels of testosterone than older women. After menopause, testosterone levels decline sharply.
A blood test is the best way to determine whether your testosterone levels are within the normal range. Your doctor can also check for other hormone imbalance that may be causing symptoms.
If you have any concerns about your testosterone levels, talk to your doctor. They can order blood tests to check your hormone levels and make sure that they are within the normal range.
8. How does PCOS cause high levels of Testosterone in women?
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS, is the most common cause of elevated androgens (male hormones) including testosterone in women.
Our hormones work together and depend on each other for their functioning. In PCOS, insulin resistance is prevalent; approximately 50% of PCOS patients also have metabolic syndrome. Insulin is the hormone that transports sugar from the blood into your cells. When blood sugar levels are high and insulin and glucose are present in excessive amounts, the cells stop responding to insulin hormone; a condition termed as insulin resistance.
When insulin is high, egg is not released from a follicle and often immature follicles form on the ovaries. This typically causes the polycystic ovaries and absence of ovulation, which further leads to the irregular menstrual cycles common with PCOS.
High insulin also causes high estrogen levels relative to progesterone (estrogen dominance).
Insulin also signals to the ovaries and adrenal glands to make more testosterone. With insulin, estrogen and testosterone high, both weight and fertility are impacted. And since fat cells can also make testosterone, one gets caught up in the cycle of high testosterone levels, weight gain, irregular periods, facial hair, acne and all other symptoms of PCOS.
9. Does hyperandrogenism cause weight gain?
The main cause of weight gain is the accumulation of toxins in the body. These toxins come from the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe. Toxins can also be generated by stress, negative emotions, and poor digestion. When these toxins accumulate in the body, they can cause a variety of problems, including weight gain. Hyperandrogenism is one condition that can lead to toxin accumulation. Hyperandrogenism is a condition in which there is an imbalance of hormones in the body. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, stress, and certain medical conditions. When hyperandrogenism occurs, it can lead to an increase in toxicity levels in the body. This can eventually lead to weight gain. Therefore, treating hyperandrogenism can be an effective way to prevent weight gain.
