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activity and has been shown to compete for receptor sites to block receptor sites thus lowering high estrogen levels, as well as to fill receptor sites to increase low levels of estrogen. Thus we can see that this herb regulates estrogen levels in the body in many ways and thus is useful in the treatment of perimenopausal and menopausal complaints such as hot flashes, irregular bleeding, insomnia or vaginal dryness. Dong quai is also useful in the treatment of menstrual irregularities, PMS, infertility, ovarian cysts and breast cysts. It may be used as a tea (1 cup 3 times a day), tincture (1/2 tsp. 3 times a day), or in capsules as directed on the bottle.
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and red clover (Trifolium pratenses) all contain phytoestrogen-acting isoflavones which act to influence estrogen metabolism, decrease the risk of hormone-dependent cancers, mimic estrogen effects and stimulate breast milk production. These plants all belong to the pea family (the same as soy), all members of which are useful for their phytoestrogen activity. These plants may be used in the treatment of perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms, premenstrual syndrome, menstrual cramps, infertility, polycystic ovaries and fibrocystic breast disease. These herbs may be taken as a tea (one cup 3 times daily), a tincture (1/2 to 1 tsp. 2 to 3 times a day) or a capsule as directed on the bottle.
The Anti-Estrogenic Diet
1. Eliminate sugar, white flour and refined foods.
2. Eliminate methylxanthines such as coffee, tea,

 
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