Hormones are the chemical messengers that are secreted directly into the blood. Blood then carries them to different organs or tissues in the body. Hormones have a very key role to play in our health. It is required in a very appropriate amount in the body to function properly. The hormones fluctuate or get imbalanced at the time of puberty, pregnancy, menstruation, etc. But hormonal imbalances can also occur due to dysfunction of endocrine glands. There are several endocrine glands present throughout the body that control organs such as the hypothalamus gland, adrenal glands, thyroid glands, etc. The medical condition of a person has a certain impact on his/her endocrine glands leading to changes in functionalities of the endocrine glands and thus, disturbing hormonal balances. Some changes in lifestyle and environmental factors also affect hormonal balance.

Causes 

• Hormone therapy
• Medications
• Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy
• Tumors whether cancerous or benign.
• Pituitary tumors
• Eating disorders
• Stress Injury or trauma

Symptoms 

Increased weight gain – For those who have a hormonal imbalance, their weight rises drastically despite their efforts to remain healthy. Certain dietary changes can help such as avoiding processed foods, sugar, etc.

Increases belly Fat – This is due to the endocrine system which results in the underproduction of certain hormones or overproduction of cortisol. Cortisol results in the storage of fat.

Decreased libido – this begins with a disturbed sleep pattern which can reduce sex hormone production.

Exhaustion – In this the person becomes fatigued. This can be overcome by a healthy diet and exercising.

Depression – It is a sign that the body is toxic or stressed and is not being nourished.

Poor sleep pattern – Insomnia is the beginning of stress. Try to get into the bed at a fixed time. Avoid using phones to get quality sleep. Sweating – Excess sweating especially at night. Often emotions lead to this. So, take out those feelings before going to sleep.

Food Cravings – Adrenal fatigue and insulin resistance can cause food cravings. This can cause a person to eat more. Maintaining a healthy diet and eating small meals can help these cravings. Muscle weakness, tenderness, stiffness. Swelling or pain in your joints.

General Ways to regulate hormones 

Consume enough protein in every meal, high fiber diet.s Regular Exercises. Avoid sugar and refined carbs. Consume healthy fats. Avoid overeating and undereating. Drink green tea. Manage your stresses. Eat fatty fish often. Get a healthy sleep.

Naturopathy contributes to hormonal balances

Naturopathy has been very much useful in hormonal disbalance as it employs pseudoscientific practices of self-healing. These are not based on medicines. Naturopathy deals with natural herbs. Some of them are – 

• Ashwagandha – Extremely useful tonic in the hormonal system.
• Black cohosh – Reduces painful menstruation and menopausal symptoms.
• Dandelion – aids liver metabolism and reduces water retention.
• Dong Quai – It is useful in balancing the excess and deficit hormones.
• Kelp – rich source of Iodine, useful in hypothyroidism.
• Valerian – Improves quality of sleep. Reduces anxiety.