Functional Medicine is a systems biology–based approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of disease, rather than simply treating symptoms.
Decreased ovarian reserve (DOR) refers to a disease, of which the quality and quantity of oocytes are compromised before age 40 in women, leading to the decrease or loss of fertility. Perimenopausal symptoms such as irregular menstruation, hot flashes and night sweats, vaginal dryness, sexual discomfort, sleep disorders, and mood swings may occur among DOR patients. These can result in premature ovarian failure (POF) within 1-5 years, which seriously impairs the fertility and quality of life of women suffering from this disease.
Chinese Herbal Medicine contain kidney tonifying and activating blood circulation herbs which help with inducing ovulation and balancing hormones. In a study two Chinese formulations were used to treat DOR patients, Herbal formula “Zhuyun Tang” was given to patients from the 5th to 15th day of the menstrual cycle and “Guchong Tang” for the rest 12 days. Zhuyun Tang can effectively promote the growth of the endometrium and follicle development. The second formula Guchong Tang can effectively promote ovarian ovulation and maintain corpus luteum function, the study demonstrated that sequential therapy for kidney-tonifying via TCM could further improve sex hormone levels and ovarian reserve in women with DOR.
