Herbal Remedies for PCOS: A Traditional Chinese Medicine Guide
Herbs for PCOS: A Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Approach
Living with PCOS is a real challenge.
PCOS or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a common condition where hormones are out of balance. This imbalance causes symptoms like irregular periods, weight gain, acne breakout or small cysts on the ovaries.
Western medicine typically leans on birth control pills or medications like Metformin. And yes, those can work—sometimes. But they aren't always the right fit, especially with the side effects some people experience.
That’s where Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers something different. It treats you as a whole person, not just a bundle of symptoms. Whether it’s herbs, acupuncture, or lifestyle tweaks, our goal is to bring your body back into balance.
In this blog, we’ll explore how herbs for PCOS, traditional Chinese medicine, may support you in managing PCOS—gently and naturally. And if you’re near Brooklyn, our team at Open Care Community would love to walk alongside you through personalized herbal consultations.
Understanding PCOS Through the Lens of TCM
You may never find the term “PCOS” in ancient Chinese medical texts. That is because Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) doesn't use the same term as described by Western medicine. But that doesn't imply there's no solution for PCOS in TCM. Instead of zeroing in on a single diagnosis, TCM looks at your body as a whole. It considers how you feel, how things flow, and what might be out of balance.
Even without the name, many of the symptoms related to PCOS actually fit into familiar TCM patterns.
One of the most common is Liver Qi Stagnation. This pattern is recognized when your energy(qi”) isn't flowing smoothly. Stress is usually the culprit. If you’ve been feeling easily irritated, dealing with PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), or noticing irregular periods, this might be part of what’s going on.
Then there’s Spleen Qi Deficiency with Dampness. . In this pattern, your digestion and energy feel off. You might get tired easily. Or, you may feel bloated after meals. Sudden weight gain, even after being careful, is one of the signs too.
Kidney Qi Deficiency is another pattern we see. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), "Kidney Qi Deficiency" doesn't mean a problem with the actual kidneys. In this, fertility and hormones are involved. You might feel chilly all the time, struggle with low energy, or find it hard to conceive.
Last but not least, there is Blood Stasis. This one is related to poor circulation and can cause painful periods or even the formation of cysts.
Guess what's the major difference here? In TCM, a practitioner won’t try to “treat PCOS” as a one-size-fits-all issue. Instead, they’ll sit with you, ask about your life, your cycle, your sleep, your stress, and then figure out which pattern best fits you. This is called pattern differentiation. It helps shape a treatment plan made just for your body.
That plan might involve herbs, acupuncture, food recommendations, or simply slowing down a bit. All these work together and try to align with how your body naturally works.
So if you’ve been feeling off, whether it’s skin troubles, fatigue, irregular cycles, or mood swings, herbs for PCOS from TCM practitioners may offer another way to listen to your body.
Most Commonly Used Chinese Herbs for PCOS
Below are some most common herbs TCM practitioners often turn to when working with PCOS(usually used in combination as a full formula). They're used after noticing what kind of pattern your body is showing.
Liver Qi Stagnation
If you are getting moody, or having irregular periods, your qi might not be moving the way it should. This usually happens due to stress. So, these herbs are commonly used to help release that tension.
Chai Hu (Bupleurum Root):This herb works for the liver and makes you feel emotionally strong.
Xiang Fu (Cyperus Rhizome): It manages cramps, breast tenderness, and that stuckness feeling before your period.
Spleen Qi Deficiency with Dampness
Is your energy too low to even walk? Or, in days you are feeling heavy or bloated. These herbs are used to help clear that damp feeling.
Bai Zhu (Atractylodes): It helps with digestion. After using this, your body moves excess fluids properly.
Fu Ling (Poria Cocos): This herb also works for gut health.
Cang Zhu (Atractylodes Rhizome): It helps with bloating and sudden weight again.
Kidney Qi Deficiency
This happens when your hands and feet feel colder than usual. You may also feel less energetic. This can sometimes be connected to hormone imbalances or fertility issues. Here's which all herbs can help in this situation.
Shu Di Huang (Rehmannia Root): It works to maintain hormone balance in your body.
Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berry): Along with maintaining hormone balance, it takes care of ovarian health.
Blood Stasis
Slow circulation in TCM can lead to painful periods, clotting, or even cyst formation. If these are your signs, the two herbs can help you the best.
Dang Gui (Angelica Sinensis): This herb helps improve the blood flow.
Dan Shen (Salvia Root): It supports better circulation and reduces menstrual discomfort.
Now, these herbs aren’t used alone. TCM is all about mixing the right herbs into a formula that works for you. That’s why working with a trained herbalist matters so much. If you're not sure what your body needs, our team at Open Care Community is here to help.
Book a personalized consultation, and we’ll figure it out together.
Evidence-Based Benefits of TCM for PCOS
Modern research is increasingly validating what Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has practiced for centuries—its ability to gently and effectively ease the many symptoms of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). And this isn’t just about fertility. TCM treatments like acupuncture and herbal medicine have been shown to support hormonal balance, restore more regular menstrual cycles, reduce excess androgen levels, and help people feel more like themselves again.
One study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that combining acupuncture with Chinese herbal medicine helped regulate cycles and lower androgen levels—two major contributors to symptoms like irregular periods, acne, and unwanted hair growth. What’s noteworthy? These benefits showed up even in people who weren’t trying to get pregnant.
A 2021 meta-analysis in Frontiers in Endocrinology took it a step further. It reviewed several clinical trials and found that TCM therapies, used with or without Clomiphene, led to higher ovulation and pregnancy rates. But perhaps even more importantly, participants reported fewer side effects, lighter periods, and more consistent cycles—signs of better hormonal balance across the board.
Another study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine focused on the impact of herbal formulas paired with simple lifestyle changes—things like balanced meals and gentle movement. The results were encouraging: improved insulin sensitivity, less bloating and fatigue, and more regular cycles, all without relying solely on medications.
Together, these studies show that TCM offers a holistic, natural path to relief. From painful periods to fatigue, from acne to hormone shifts, the support TCM provides is both broad and personal. And while fertility may be one goal, for many, the real win is simply feeling more balanced and at ease in their body.
At Open Care Community in Brooklyn, that’s exactly how we approach PCOS. As a sliding scale clinic, we offer individualized TCM treatments—herbal formulas, acupuncture, and more—designed to meet your specific needs. Whether or not pregnancy is part of your plan, we’re here to help you feel better, day by day.
What to Expect from an Herbal Consultation at Open Care
At Open Care Community, your herbal consultation is all about seeing the bigger picture, not just your PCOS symptoms. We take time to understand how your body functions as a whole. That means your practitioner will ask about more than just your cycle. This includes your digestion status, sleep schedule, energy levels, mood, and more.
You’ll also experience traditional diagnostic methods like tongue and pulse reading. These help your practitioner get a deeper sense of what’s happening inside your body, beyond what words can explain.
We truly believe that care should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we use a sliding scale for pricing. You simply pay what you can on the sliding scale—no proof of income required, no questions asked. It’s about creating a space where you feel safe, respected, and heard.
Your herbalist will then prescribe a formula that’s just right for you. Most of the time, herbs are given in powdered granule form or as capsules. This personalized approach reflects the core of herbs for PCOS traditional Chinese medicine. As your body shifts and responds, your formula will evolve too. That’s why regular check-ups matter.
Ready to start? Book your first Herbal Consultation with Open Care Community—we’d love to meet you.
Complementary Treatments That Support PCOS (Acupuncture, Bodywork, Diet)
Taking care of PCOS needs more than a single solution. At Open Care, we bring together multiple healing methods to help you.
Acupuncture is one of the most effective interventions we offer. It helps balance the HPO axis (the connection between your brain and ovaries). This HPO axis plays a big role in hormone regulation and ovulation. Many people with PCOS find their cycles become more regular with consistent treatment.
Cupping and gua sha are gentle, hands-on therapies. Both of them help improve blood flow and ease both physical and emotional tension.
We also suggest natural body movement activities. It could be yoga, walking, or light strength training. These kinds of activities can boost your metabolism and ease stress. All these eventually help manage PCOS.
Emotional wellness plays a big role, too. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, stuck emotions highlight the pattern of Liver Qi stagnation. That’s why bodywork and making space for self-expression become necessary for healing.
At Open Care, we combine acupuncture, herbs for PCOS, traditional Chinese medicine, and bodywork to help you out. If you're near one of the many train lines that come to downtown Brooklyn, come see what personalized, affordable PCOS care can feel like.
FAQs Section: Herbs + TCM for PCOS
Are Chinese herbs safe for women with PCOS?
Yes, they’re safe—as long as they’re recommended by a trained herbalist. The herbs aren’t just picked at random. They’re chosen specifically for your body and how you’re feeling. Your practitioner makes sure everything is gentle, well-matched to your needs, and won’t overwhelm your system.
Will I need to take herbs forever?
No. Herbs are used to support your body’s healing process over time. Once balance is restored, many people either reduce their formula or stop altogether. However, it is necessary to listen to your trained practitioner as every case is different.
Can I take them alongside Western medications?
In most cases, yes. Your herbalist will review your current medications to avoid interactions.
How long does it take to see results?
Every human is different. Some people feel changes within a few weeks, while others take a few months. Consistency and follow-up care help the process.
Do I have to drink bitter tea?
Not always. Herbs can be given as powders, capsules, or teas. It depends on what works best for you. Your practitioner will find the most manageable option.
If you have any more queries, bring your questions. Schedule a 1-on-1 consultation with our herbal specialists.
Closing Section: A Welcoming Support Team for Every Hormonal Phase
Many women are now turning to herbs for PCOS, traditional Chinese medicine as a gentle approach to healing. Whether you're hoping to get pregnant, navigate weight changes, find some cycle balance, or just start feeling like yourself again, we’re here for you.
At Open Care Community, we get that no two PCOS journeys are alike. That’s why your care is built around you. No cookie-cutter plans. No quick fixes. Just thoughtful, personalized support that meets you where you are.
We also believe that real care should be within reach. Our sliding-scale model means you can access herbal consultations, acupuncture, and bodywork, without worrying about cost getting in the way.
You don’t have to go through this alone.
If you're looking for integrative PCOS support in NYC, we’re right here in the heart of Brooklyn—ready to walk with you, with care, respect, and community.
☎ Book your consultation today: https://opencarecommunity.com/
