Natural, Complementary or Alternative Therapies for Fibroids

Unfortunately there are few studies have explored the use of alternative medicine in the treatment of uterine fibroids. Some options include:

Green Tea

In an animal study published in 2010, scientists discovered that eight weeks of treatment with green tea extract led to a significant decrease in the volume and weight of uterine fibroids among a group of mice.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

In a pilot study published in 2002, researchers assigned a group of women with uterine fibroids to six months of treatment with traditional Chinese medicine, body therapy (including bodywork), and guided imagery. Study results showed that fibroids shrank or stopped growing in 22 patients in the treatment group, compared with three patients in the control group.

Acupuncture

For a research review published in 2010, investigators sought out all randomized controlled trials comparing acupuncture with various other treatments (such as medication) in the management of uterine fibroids. Finding none of the available studies sufficiently well-designed, the review’s authors concluded that “the effectiveness of acupuncture for the management of uterine fibroids remains uncertain.”

Since natural approaches have not been proven to treat uterine fibroids safely and effectively, it’s important to consult your physician before using any type of alternative medicine in the treatment of this condition. Self-treating and avoiding or delaying standard care can have serious consequences.