Dandelion root has gained popularity as a herbal remedy for hormone balancingEugène-Samuel Grasset (1845-1917), Maurice Pillard Verneuil (1869–1942), and others/Wikimedia Commons/https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en/cropped
In recent years, the wellness industry has witnessed an explosion in trends and practices promising to ‘balance’ hormones. From dandelion root tea to vaginal steaming, and even the concept of ‘cortisol face,’ social media platforms like TikTok have amplified these claims. Many of these trends are presented as natural solutions for better health, promising to regulate everything from stress levels to skin conditions. But what does science really say about these practices?
Hormones are the body’s chemical messengers, responsible for regulating various physiological functions, including metabolism, growth, mood, and stress responses. The popular notion of ‘balancing’ hormones often hinges on the idea of restoring equilibrium, especially when it comes to cortisol. In this context, practices like dandelion root tea and vaginal steaming are frequently touted as remedies to manage hormone levels, but how valid are these claims?
Dandelion root has gained popularity as an herbal remedy for a variety of ailments, including hormone balancing. It’s often praised for its purported detoxifying effects, particularly for the liver. The liver plays a crucial role in hormone regulation, breaking down and excreting excess hormones like estrogen. Some claim that dandelion root tea can enhance liver function, thereby helping to balance hormones. There is some scientific evidence for this, but we must interpret it cautiously.
One study notes that dandelion root has some hepatoprotective properties, which might support liver health. Moreover, researchers have shown that extract can promote synthesis of steroid hormones and improve growth of ovarian granulosa cells (a type of cell in the ovaries that produce hormones including oestrogen and progesterone). Nevertheless, while it’s true that a healthy liver is essential for hormone metabolism, drinking dandelion root tea alone is unlikely to have a significant effect on hormone levels without other lifestyle changes, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Vaginal steaming, an ancient practice in many cultures, has made a resurgence in modern wellness circles. The procedure involves sitting over a bowl of steaming herbs, which purportedly penetrate the body and bring about health benefits. Advocates claim that it can balance hormones, improve menstrual health, and even detoxify the vagina.
However, there is little to no scientific evidence supporting the benefits of vaginal steaming. The practice may even be harmful: in one case study, a patient developed second-degree burns after using vaginal steaming in an attempt to treat vaginal prolapse. A 2010 overview of systematic reviews found that, except for correcting breech presentation in pregnancy, research on vaginal steaming is contradictory and inconclusive. The review found no evidence that vaginal moxibustion (burning mugwort – a weed-like plant with roots in ancient Chinese and European medicine – on or over a pressure point or other areas of the body) was helpful. Moreover, the vagina is self-cleaning and requires no assistance from steam to detoxify or balance its health.
“In one case study, a patient developed second-degree burns after using vaginal steaming”
One of the more alarming trends circulating on social media is the idea of ‘cortisol face’. This term refers to the belief that high cortisol levels caused by stress can cause premature aging, wrinkles, and other skin issues. Cortisol, often called the ‘stress hormone,’ plays a pivotal role in the body’s fight-or-flight response. It is produced by the adrenal glands and helps control blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and manage stress. While it’s true that chronic stress can impact skin health, the connection between cortisol and visible skin changes is more complex than simple ‘hormonal imbalance’.
Prolonged stress can lead to an overproduction of cortisol, which in turn may contribute to inflammation, acne, and other skin conditions. However, attributing these effects to a vague concept like ‘cortisol face’ oversimplifies the science. Skin ageing is influenced by multiple factors, including genetics, UV exposure, and lifestyle choices like diet and smoking. While high cortisol levels may play a role in skin ageing, it is not the sole factor, and labelling it as a ‘face’ condition may mislead individuals into focusing on the wrong aspects of skincare.
Social media platforms like TikTok have become breeding grounds for these wellness trends, many of which are based on anecdotal evidence rather than scientific research. Influencers and wellness bloggers often promote remedies for hormone balance with little to no scientific backing. In some cases, these influencers may unintentionally spread misinformation, leading their followers to adopt potentially harmful practices.
“Social media platforms like TikTok have become breeding grounds for wellness trends”
A study found that health-related content on platforms like Instagram and TikTok is often misleading, with many wellness trends lacking robust scientific evidence. This trend is particularly concerning when it comes to hormone health, as individuals may make decisions based on false or exaggerated claims, potentially harming their well-being.
While the pursuit of hormone balance is a legitimate health concern, it’s crucial to approach wellness practices with scepticism and caution. The key to hormonal health lies in methods such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular physical activity, stress management techniques (like mindfulness and meditation), and, if necessary, seeking guidance from healthcare professionals.
The rise of wellness trends highlights a larger cultural conversation about health, beauty, and the pursuit of hormonal balance. However, as with any trend, it’s essential to differentiate between scientific evidence and marketing hype. While some of these practices may offer anecdotal benefits or short-term relief, the science behind hormone regulation is far more complex than social media influencers may let on.
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