The ovaries are one of the most vital organs in a woman’s reproductive system, and their role goes far beyond fertility. Not only are they the foundation of life, but they also play a key part in maintaining the body’s overall hormonal and physiological balance.
Through delicate regulation, the ovaries control the maturation and release of eggs, influence the regularity of the menstrual cycle, affect secondary sexual traits such as breasts and skin, and even help protect bone and cardiovascular health.
Among all the hormones secreted by the ovaries, estrogen is especially important. It provides the right environment for follicle growth, supports egg maturation, and thickens the uterine lining to create ideal conditions for embryo implantation. Estrogen also regulates reproductive immunity, helping the immune system remain stable, reducing rejection of fertilized eggs or embryos, and increasing the chances of conception.
When ovarian function declines, however, hormone imbalances often follow. A common issue is “estrogen dominance,” which can trigger problems like poor-quality ovulation, ovarian cysts, endometrial polyps, inflammation, or adenomyosis—all of which can affect fertility.
So, can diet help restore estrogen balance and boost fertility? The answer is yes. Let’s look at four foods and herbs known for their estrogen-like effects that can help nourish the ovaries and support reproductive health.
And no, it’s not just soy!
When estrogen balance comes up, most people think of soy milk. While soy products are rich in isoflavones and often praised for their benefits, the reality is a little more complex.
Isoflavones have relatively low bioavailability, and their estrogenic activity is only about 1/1,000 to 1/100,000 that of medications like estradiol. On top of that, isoflavones must first be converted by gut bacteria into a more active form called “equol.” But research shows only about 40% of Asian populations can make this conversion, meaning over half of people may not benefit much from drinking soy milk alone.
Luckily, soy isn’t the only option. Here are four other foods and herbs that the ovaries truly love:
1. Motherwort – The “Hormone Regulator” Behind Menstrual Health
When you hear “motherwort,” you probably think of improved circulation and menstrual regulation. But its power actually lies in its estrogen-like activity.
Studies show that compounds in motherwort, such as leonurine and stachydrine, can bind to estrogen receptors and mimic estrogen’s effects. This makes motherwort especially effective for regulating the reproductive system, easing irregular cycles, and reducing menstrual pain.
Beyond hormone balance, motherwort also nourishes the uterus and ovaries, encouraging endometrial growth and improving conditions for conception. Research even shows that using fresh motherwort capsules after abortion helps restore estrogen levels and uterine lining repair—without added side effects.
2. Raspberry – From a Kidney Tonic to an Estrogen Balancer
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), raspberry (覆盆子, fu pen zi) is known as a classic kidney tonic that replenishes essence and supports fertility. Modern research has revealed how: it directly influences the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which governs reproductive hormone levels.
Animal studies show raspberry extracts can reduce luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) while lowering estradiol (E2) levels, especially when estrogen is too high. At the same time, it raises levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), helping the body restore balance.
Interestingly, raspberry also supports male hormone secretion, broadening its role in endocrine balance and reproductive health for both men and women.
3. Kudzu Root – Estrogen-Like Compounds + Ovarian Support
Kudzu root (Pueraria lobata), long used in TCM for fever relief, digestion, circulation, and even hangover recovery, is rich in isoflavones similar to those in soy. These compounds can mimic estrogen activity and positively influence the female endocrine system.
Modern studies highlight one key compound, puerarin, which can regulate ovarian tissue through the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. This helps reduce oxidative stress, inhibit follicular atresia, and ultimately improve ovarian function.
Note: Kudzu root is cooling in nature. Those with a weak or sensitive stomach should use it cautiously to avoid digestive discomfort.
4. Goji Berries – A “Food-Medicine” Ally for Estrogen Support
Goji berries are a well-loved superfood in both cuisine and herbal medicine, known for nourishing the liver and kidneys, boosting vitality, and protecting vision. But research also shows they have estrogen-like effects.
Animal experiments reveal that goji polysaccharides can significantly protect ovarian health: they raise estrogen, progesterone, and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) while lowering IGF-binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1), all of which support reproductive function.
Further studies show goji leaves can increase estradiol levels and enhance expression of estrogen receptors in bone tissue, suggesting additional benefits for women’s bone health post-menopause.