Endometriosis Herbal Protocol: Wild Yam/Vitex + Cramp Bark

For endometriosis pain management while transitioning off birth control pills, this combination targets hormonal balance and acute cramping.

Core Protocol

• Wild Yam + Vitex (chasteberry) capsule: 1–2 capsules 2× daily, all month. Regulates LH/FSH ratio, supports progesterone, reduces estrogen dominance over 3–6 months.
• Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) tincture: 2–4 ml every 2–4 hours during acute pain. Antispasmodic, uterine relaxant. Tea also works (1 tsp/cup, steep 15 min).

Transition Strategy

1. Start herbs 1 month before tapering OCPs
2. Reduce OCP dose by 25% monthly (or per doctor)
3. Track symptoms daily (pain, bleeding, mood, cycle)
4. Add liver support: milk thistle, dandelion root, NAC
5. Anti-inflammatory diet: eliminate dairy, gluten, sugar, red meat trial

Complementary Support

• Castor oil packs (liver/abdomen) 3×/week
• Magnesium glycinate 400 mg nightly
• Omega-3 (2 g EPA/DHA)
• Stress management (cortisol → estrogen)

Monitoring

• Pelvic ultrasound baseline + 6 months
• Hormone panel (day 3 & day 21)
• Symptom journal

Work with a practitioner. Endometriosis is complex. Herbs are powerful but need individualization.