Estrogen and progesterone are two major sex hormones in the human body. Estrogen is the hormone responsible for sex characteristics and reproductive abilities in women.

Progesterone is the hormone that plays a supporting role in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

When you have low levels of estrogen and progesterone, such as during menopause, it can negatively affect your mood, sexual desire, bone health, and more.

In many cases, if you have low estrogen you might also have low progesterone. This is especially common during menopause, when most of the female hormones drop drastically.

Progesterone is most commonly boosted through creams and medications, but some may prefer a more natural approach.

One possible way to boost progesterone is through herbal supplements. One study found that chasteberry was able to raise mid-cycle progesterone levels.

However, not all herbal supplements are effective for boosting progesterone. Another study found that multiple Chinese herbal medicine supplements actually lowered progesterone levels.

A better way to naturally raise progesterone levels is through a healthy diet and lifestyle. Eating a varied diet can provide the body with the nutrients it needs for progesterone metabolism.

This includes foods such as cruciferous vegetables, nuts, and whole grains. Keeping a healthy weight, staying on a consistent sleep schedule, and managing stress can help to keep hormones balanced as well.