About... The Women's Formulas

Progesterone

Natural progesterone may have distinct advantages over synthetic progesterone in terms of safety and effectiveness (Comp Ther 1998;24:336–9). Progesterone, like estrogen, is a hormone that plays an important role in bone metabolism (Endocr Rev 1990;11:386–98). Topical natural progesterone supports bone maintenance (Eur J Nutr 2004;43:246–57), and, when combined with a program of diet, exercise and vitamin and calcium supplementation, supported accumulation of bone mass over a three-year period (Int Clin Nutr Rev 1990; 10:384–91). Topical natural progesterone has been shown in double blind research to promote normal hormonal health during menopause (Obstet Gynecol 1999;94:225–8). A controlled trial of 1/4 teaspoon of cream daily, containing 20 mg transdermal natural progesterone, given to 102 menopausal women, stabilized vasomotor function in the majority of subjects (Obstet Gynecol 1999;94(2):225-8).

Cal/Mag Aspartate 1:1

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Calcium and magnesium in a 1:1 ratio, as aspartic acid salts

Product # 2114

90 capsules

• Refer to next product, and Minerals / Bone Support.

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 3 Capsules Servings per container 30
Amount per serving:		%DV
Calcium (aspartate)	225 mg	23%
Magnesium (aspartate)	225 mg	56%
† Daily Value (DV) not established

Suggested use for adults:

• 3-6 tablets daily taken with meals, or as directed.

Cal/Mag Aspartate 2:1

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True, chemically-reacted mineral aspartates

Product # 2102

90 tablets

tablet

By practitioner request, Karuna provides this popular product in two Ca:Mg ratios – both 2:1 and 1:1 (REFER ALSO to the product immediately following).  Both calcium and magnesium are required in significant amounts by humans and many diets are poor in these minerals. Calcium and magnesium play complementary roles together to support skeletal health, neuromuscular activity, optimal vascular tone, and normal menstrual cycle physiology. Aspartic acid, an amino acid, is a particularly efficient mineral transport agent, originally investigated by German researcher Hans Nieper, and additionally supports cellular energy production.

• Refer to Minerals / Bone Support.
• Optimal calcium and magnesium intake is associated with normal vascular tone and healthy blood pressure regulation (Ann Intern Med 1983;98:800-5).
• Experimental studies and case reports suggest that magnesium has a special role in opposing neuromuscular hyperexcitability (Med Sci Monit 2002;8:CR326-30; Eur J Neurol 2000;7:741-4; S Afr Med J 1985;68:332-3; Phys. Sportsmed 1983;11:79-81).
• Calcium and magnesium both support premenstrual physiology (Psychoneuroendocrinology 2003; 28:39-53) and normal uterine muscle tone during menses (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1998;179:444–52; Ther Umsch 1996;53:431-41; Am J Obstet Gynecol 1993;168:1417–23)..

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 3 Capsules Servings per container 30
Amount per serving:		%DV
Calcium (aspartate)	600 mg	60%
Magnesium (aspartate)	300 mg	75%
† Daily Value (DV) not established

Suggested use for adults:

• 3-6 tablets daily taken with meals, or as directed.

DHEA	back to top

Dehydroepiandrosterone for hormonal support

Product # 8104

90 capsules

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the most abundant corticosteroid hormone in the body, and it acts as a substrate for a variety of other hormones. Current research demonstrates that DHEA levels steadily decline with age after approximately age 25, reaching a low at age 80 of only about 5% of that of a 20-year-old. DHEA converts to (or stimulates the production of) estrogen, testosterone, cortisone and many other steroid ­hormones as needed by the body. ­Additionally, some cells have specific DHEA receptor sites. Research suggests that DHEA supports the maintenance of normal adrenal and immune function, bone density, healthy skin, and sexual health. Karuna’s DHEA contains biochemically pure DHEA in amounts suitable for flexible dosing. We do not use wild yam or other sources claiming to contain “natural” DHEA precursors, because studies demonstrate these precursors cannot be activated in the human body.

• DHEA is an adrenocortical hormone, the most abundant steroid hormone in the body, which acts as a substrate in the synthesis of a variety of other vital hormones (Lancet 1994;343: 1479-81; Gyncecol Endocrinol 1999; 13:15-25)..
• It is understood that levels of DHEA decrease steadily as the body ages and as a result of declining health (Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2000;97:4279-84; Ann NY Acad Sci 1995;774:128-42; Altern Med Rev 1996;1:60-9).
• Double-blind trials have reported increases in perceived physical and psychological well-being with DHEA supplementation (J Clin Encocrinol Metab 1994;78:1360; Am J Psychiatry 1999;156:646-9).
• Controlled research demonstrates that DHEA supplementation increases epidermal thickness, sebum production, skin hydration, and decreases facial skin pigmentation in the elderly (Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2000;97:4279-84).
• Improved immune responses have also been reported after DHEA supplementation (J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci 1997;52:M1-7; Am J Obstet Gynecol 1993;169:1536-9).
• Taking DHEA helps support normal functioning of the adrenal glands (J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2002;87:2046-52; N Engl J Med 1999;341:1013-20).
• Improved sexual function in men was reported in a double-blind trial of DHEA (Urology 1999;53:590-5).
• Taking DHEA supports healthy bone density in men and women (Chin Med J (Engl) 2002;115:402-4; Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2000;53:561-8)..
• Wild yam and other sources claiming DHEA activity are not effective for raising DHEA levels in the human body (JAMA 1996;276:1365-7; Life
  Sci 1996;59:PL147-57)..

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 capsule Servings per container 90
Amount per serving:		%DV
Dehydroepiandrosterone DHEA	15 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

Other ingredients: vegetarian capsule, microcrystalline cellulose

Suggested use for adults:

• One capsule daily, as directed.

Caution: This product should not be taken without professional supervision, especially by patients with a personal or family history of hormone-related conditions, heart disease, mood disorders, or liver dysfunction.

For more information feel free to review Natural Hormones for Men:

This is an extensive library of useful articles and information. The original and thought-provoking work by John R. Lee, M.D. about men's hormones, how men can use natural hormones for optimal health, causes of prostate cancer and more. Men have hormone imbalances that can cause fatigue, weight gain, foggy thinking, irritability, prostate problems and loss of sex drive. Find out if you or a man in your life might be suffering from andropause. What it means when testosterone, DHEA and growth hormone are low or high in men. How testing hormones can help achieve male hormone balance. Why each recommended hormone is relevant to hormone balance for men. And more...

Ipriflavone Plus

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Isoflavones with nutrients for bone support

Product # 7116

180 capsules

For a rapidly-aging population, osteoporosis and susceptibility to debilitating fractures are increasingly urgent clinical problems. Fortunately many nutritional agents act to promote the optimal balance between bone resorption and deposition, and to check mineral losses. Ipriflavone, similar to soy isoflavones, has proven clinically effective in this regard. Ipriflavone is compatible and synergistic with other bone-sparing agents. Ipriflavone Plus also contains calcium and magnesium as the preferred citrate/malate salts, generous amounts of both vitamin D3 and vitamin K1, as well as important trace minerals.

• Refer to About...Calcium, also the About...sections Vitamin D, Magnesium and Other Bone-related Factors (see above).
• Extensive basic science and human clinical data on the isoflavone derivative ipriflavone has demonstrated that it is a safe and effective approach for optimizing bone metabolism and supporting healthy bone density alternative to estrogen therapy for increasing bone mass in postmeno­pausal women (Menopause 1999;6: 233-41).
• Silicon appears to play important roles in the formation and mainten­ance of connective tissue and bone (J Bone Miner Res 2004;19:297-307; Magnes Res 1993;6:247-9; Nutr Today 1993;28:13–8).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 6 Capsules Servings per container 30
Amount per serving:		%DV
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)	800 IU	200%
Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone)	1 mg	1250%
Calcium (citrate malate)	600 mg	60%
Magnesium (citrate malate)	300 mg	75%
Ipriflavone	600 mg	†
Silicon (Equisitum Arvense)	20 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

Other ingredients: magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide

Suggested use for adults:

• Six capsules daily, in divided doses, or as directed.

MAXXI-Natal

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High Quality Nutritional Support for Pregnant and Nursing Women

Product # 1120

240 capsules

MAXXI-Natal is formulated to provide a specific combination of vitamins and minerals for pregnant and lactating women, including iron and folic acid. Additional zinc is included, as supplemental iron can inhibit zinc absorption. Generous amounts of calcium are provided in the same 2:1 citrate:malate ratio found optimal in clinical studies, along with additional minerals that are co-factors for bone health. Rutin, a bioflavonoid, is included for venous and capillary support, as is B6 for nausea.

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 8 capsules Servings per container 30
Amount per serving:		%DV
Vitamin A (natural beta-carotene)	8,000 IU	160%
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid)	300 mg	500%
Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol)	400 IU	100%
Vitamin E (natural d-alpha-tocopheryl succinate)	200 IU	667%
Vitamin K1 (phylloquinone)	120 mcg	150%
B1 (thiamine)	15 mg	1,000%
B2 (riboflavin)	15 mg	882%
B3 (niacinamide)	15 mg	75%
B6 (pyridoxine HCl) granulated	50 mg	2,500%
Folic Acid	800 mcg	200%
B12 (methylcobalamin)	450 mcg	7,500%
Biotin (d-biotin)	400 mcg	133%
B5 (d-calcium pantothenate)	20 mg	200%
Calcium (citrate/malate 2:1)	800 mg	80%
Iron (glycinate)	15 mg	84%
Iodine (potassium iodide)	150 mcg	100%
Magnesium (citrate/malate)	400 mg	100%
Zinc (citrate)	20 mg	134%
Selenium (l-selenomethionine)*	200 mcg	286%
Copper (glycinate)	2 mg	100%
Manganese (citrate/malate 1:1)	5 mg	250%
Chromium (polycinotinate)*	200 mcg	167%
Molybdenum (citrate)	60 mcg	80%
Potassium (citrate/malate 1:1)	99 mg	3%
Rutin	60 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

* Non-yeast form

Suggested use for adults:

• 4-8 capsules daily, taken in divided doses with meals, or as directed.

NutriGyn

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Comprehensive formula for premenstrual health

Product # 7101

90 Tablets

Tablet

NutriGyn combines specific botanical extracts, freeze-dried glandulars, vitamins and minerals to help maintain a normal premenstrual hormonal balance. Several clinical studies have confirmed the benefits of chaste berry (Vitex agnus-castus) extracts, vitamin B6, and magnesium for promoting normal regulation of mood, fluid balance, breast physiology, and overall comfort during the latter portion of the menstrual cycle. Traditional remedies Dong quai (Angelica sinensis), wild yam (Dioscorea villosa), and three supportive glandulars are included for a comprehensive formula supporting premenstrual health.

• Vitex agnus castus (chaste berry) increases the pituitary’s production of LH, which boosts the production of progesterone during the luteal phase, helping to normalize the hormone levels during the menstrual cycle (Arzneimittelforschung 1993;43:752–6).
• Double-blind trials have found Vitex effective for maintaining physiological balance in terms of mood regulation, fluid balance, and overall comfort during the latter portion of the menstrual cycle (BMJ 2001;20:134–7; Arch Gynecol Obstet 2000;264:150-3; J Womens Health Gend Based Med 2000;9:315-20).
• Vitamin B6 has been found to balance physiological function during the latter portion of the menstrual cycle in most clinical studies (J Womens Health Gend Based Med 2000;9:131-9; BMJ 1999;318:1375–81).
• Magnesium is frequently low in women with premenstrual discomfort (Ann Clin Biochem 1986;23:667–70); supplementation has supported normal mood regulation, fluid balance, and overall comfort (J Am Coll Nutrition 2000;19:3-12;
  J Womens Health 1998;7:1157–65).
• Dong quai has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a component of women’s herbal formulas (Chin Med J 1991;104:776–81).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 Tablets Servings per container 90
Amount per serving:		%DV
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine HCI)	25 mg	1250%
Magnesium (glycinate)	33 mg	8%
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)*	33 mg	†
Chaste Berry (Vitex agnus-castus)*	33 mg	†
Ovarian Tissue**	33 mg	†
Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa )*	33 mg	†
Hypothalamus**	3.3 mg	†
Pituitary**	1.7 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

*4:1 extract
**from FDA approved BSE free freeze dried bovine source

Other ingredients: cellulose, vegetable stearine

Suggested use for adults:

• One tablet, 2-3 times daily, at least two weeks prior to onset of menses, or as directed.

PhytoGyn

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Natural support for menopause

Product # 7103

1 ounce

fluid

As women mature, several botanicals can help them maintain their vitality and help regulate the activity of the vasomotor system. PhytoGyn supplies a fluid extract blend of plants rich in phytoestrogens, a botanical extract of black cohosh found effective for support-ing menopausal health, and tradi-tional women’s herbs for balancing hormones. Phyto-estrogens bind to estrogen receptor sites, and in the presence of minimal endogenous estrogens (menopause) they may exert moderate estrogenic activity. Black cohosh may possess additional properties relating to neurotransmitter metabolism, osteoblast activity, and modulation of other hormones. A fluid extract is convenient for use in water, juice, or tea.

• Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), in a concentrated extract, has been shown to be especially effective for stabilizing vasomotor activity and other functions in menopausal women (Gynecol Endocrinol 2005; 20:30-5; Obstet Gynecol 2005;105: 1074-83; J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2005;14:634-49).
• Black cohosh may act by several mechanisms on neurotransmitter metabolism, osteoblast activity, and modulation of hormones other than estrogen (Life Sci 2003;73:1215-29).
• Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and alfalfa (Medicago sativa) are rich sources of supportive phytoestrogens (J Reprod Fertil 1972;29:1–9).
• Dong quai, chaste berry, and motherwort are important traditional women’s herbs with strong reputations for balancing hormones (J Naturopathic Med 1997;7:73–7).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1-2 ml Servings per container 30
Amount per serving:		%DV
Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)*	30%	*
Dong Quai (Angelica sinenses)*	25%	*
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra )	15%	*
Motherwort (Leonorus cardiaco )*	10%	*
Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)*	10%	*
Chaste Berry (Vitex agnus-castus )*	10%	*
* Daily Value (DV) not established

*All are 4:1 extracts, in a base of 50% pure grain alcohol with glycerine.

Suggested use for adults:

• 1-2 ml (1 to 2 full droppers) with water three times per day away from meals, or as directed.
• CAUTION: This product is not recommended during pregnancy. To evaporate alcohol, add drops to immediately boiled water and wait five minutes.

Pregnenolone

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Steroid hormone precursor with potential neurological applications

Product # 8109

120 capsules

Pregnenolone, sometimes called the “mother steroid,” is the natural precursor of all steroid hormones, including androgens, estrogens, corticosteroids, and others. Pregnenolone also acts on GABA receptors in the brain. Oral pregnenolone supports normal psychomotor performance in stressful environments, and may have cognitive and neuroprotective effects as well. Historically, pregnenolone has been used to support joint health.

• Pregnenolone serves as a precursor to important steroid hormones, including dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and progesterone (J Steroid Biochem Molec Biol 1991;40:71-81).
• Low brain levels of pregnenolone have been associated with imbalances in the physiological control of mood and sleep (Biol Psychiatry 1994;35: 775-80).
• Pregnenolone interacts with GABA receptors to modify brain waves associated with healthy sleep patterns (Brain Res 1993;615:267-74).
• Pregnenolone may promote normal psychomotor performance and efficiency in stressful environments (Psychosom Med 1945;7:342-46; Aviation Med 1944;April:98-115)..
• Pregnenolone may promote joint health according to older research (JAMA 1950;143:338-44; J Clin Encocrinol 1951;11:559-77).

Supplement Facts Serving Size - 1 capsule Servings per container 120
Amount per serving:		%DV
Pregnenolone	50 mg	†
† Daily Value (DV) not established

Other ingredient: microcrystalline cellulose

Caution: Not to be taken by pregnant or lactating women. To be taken only under professional supervision by patients with a history of hormone-related conditions or a seizure disorder.

Suggested use for adults:

• 1 - 4 capsules per day, in divided doses with meals, or as directed.

Progesterone Plus

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Natural, bio-identical hormone with phytonutrients for female hormonal balance

Product # 7104

2 oz tube

cream

Natural progesterone, now referred to as bio-identical progesterone, is structurally the same as human progesterone and releases the full range of biologic activity of hormone produced naturally by the body. Transdermal progesterone passes through the skin into capillaries in the underlying fat layer and is passively diffused into the blood stream. In contrast to oral progesterone which is subject to removal by the liver, transdermally-applied progesterone escapes this first-pass effect to retain potency when modest amounts are used. Progesterone deficiencies may occur in association with disturbances in premenstrual and menopausal health. Progesterone facilitates bone deposition while balancing the effects of estrogen. Natural progesterone is just as effective as, and much safer than, synthetic progesterone. Supportive factors in Progesterone Plus include primrose oil and extracts of chasteberry, wild yam, and black cohosh.

• Refer to About…Progesterone (above).
• Refer to the immediately following product for further information about Karuna natural progesterone products.
• Karuna Progesterone Plus is free of alcohol, parabens and urea. Each 2 oz. tube is standardized, quality-controlled and safety-sealed to prevent oxidation and bacterial contamination.
• Each 2 oz. tube contains natural progesterone USP (30 mg per ¼ tsp.), which applies easily and absorbs rapidly into the skin, leaving no sticky or oily residue. Each tube is accompanied by an educational brochure that contains complete dosing instructions and other valuable information.

Ingredients per 2 oz. tube: Purified Water, Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Extract, Jojoba Oil, Primrose Oil, Shea Butter, Cetyl Alcohol (coconut oil derived), Micronized USP Progesterone (wild yam derived), Wild Yam Extract, Stearic Acid (palm kernel derived thickener), Monosodium Salt, Disodium Edetate (plant derived preservative), Grapefruit Seed Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Xanthan Gum (seaweed derived thickener), Vitamin E, Black Cohosh Extract, Chasteberry Extract. 48 servings (1/4 tsp) with 30 mg of progesterone per serving.

Suggested use for adults:

Progesterone, being a small, fat-soluble molecule, is easily absorbed through the skin. For general application, skin sites recommended include the inner areas of the thighs and arms, neck, upper chest and abdomen. The site should be rotated daily for maximum absorption. Allow 2-3 months for maximum effect.

Caution: Due to the ingredients Primrose Oil and Black Cohosh, this product should not be used during pregnancy or while lactating. For progestrone that can be used during pregnancy, please see our Progesterone Pure below

Progesterone, the gestational hormone derived primarily from the corpus luteum and secondarily from the adrenal gland, is a precursor hormone which can be converted, as required, into other steroid hormones such as DHEA, estrogen, androstenedione, testosterone, cortisol, and corticosteroids. Natural progesterone is structurally the same as progesterone produced in the body. It releases the full range of biologic activity of hormones produced naturally by the body. Transdermal progesterone passes through the skin into capillaries in the underlying fat layer and is passively diffused into the blood stream. Biologically identical progesterone is not associated with any side effects. Supporting compounds in this formulation, such as Primrose Oil, Chasteberry, Wild Yam, and Black Cohosh, have been shown to benefit both PMS and menopausal symptoms, including: irritability, headaches, breast tenderness, bloating, water retention, fatigue, fibrocystic breasts, low sex drive, and depression.

For more information about Progesterone, please review Virginia Hopkins Health Watch:

This is an extensive library of useful articles and information, including a Hormone Balance Test developed by Dr. John Lee, Dr. David Zava and Virginia Hopkins. Topics covered include progesterone FAQs, progesterone and estrogen effects, estrogen dominance, male hormones, saliva hormone testing, getting off HRT and getting started on natural hormones.

Progesterone Pure

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Pure and versatile formulation in rapidly-absorbing cream form free from potential allergens. Appropriate for male hormone balance and people with sensitive skin.

Product # 7115

2 oz tube

cream

Progesterone, a hormone derived primarily from the corpus luteum and secondarily from the adrenal gland and the male testes, is a precursor hormone which can be converted, as required, into other steroid hormones such as DHEA, estrogen, androstenedione, testosterone, and cortisol. Karuna’s Progesterone Pure is specifically designed for two populations: (1) male patients who may benefit from the supportive actions of progesterone and (2) all people suffering with skin sensitivities or allergies. Progesterone may play a critical role in men’s health, opposing the effects of naturally-produced and environmental estrogens on tissues such as the prostate. In addition, Progesterone Pure is a hypoallergenic formula free of chemicals found in cosmetic skin creams, particularly synthetic fragrances and preservatives that can be agents for triggering skin sensitivities and allergies.

• Refer to About…Progesterone (above).
• Refer to the immediately preceding product for further information about Karuna natural progesterone products.
• Progesterone Pure is a pure, hypoallergenic formula free from all synthetic fragrances, emulsifiers, emollients, fillers, alcohol and preservatives.
• Karuna Progesterone Pure is free of alcohol, parabens and urea. Each 2 oz. tube is standardized, quality-controlled and safety-sealed to prevent oxidation and bacterial contamination. .
• Each 2 oz. tube contains natural progesterone USP (30 mg per ¼ tsp.), which applies easily and absorbs rapidly into the skin, leaving no sticky or oily residue. Each tube is accompanied by an educational brochure that contains complete dosing instructions and other valuable information.

Ingredients per 2 oz. tube: Purified Water, Jojoba Oil, Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Extract, Shea Butter, Cetyl Alcohol (coconut oil derived), Micronized USP Progesterone (wild yam derived), Stearic Acid (palm kernel derived thickener), Monosodium Salt, Disodium Edetate (plant derived preservative), Grapefruit Seed Extract, Potassium Sorbate, Vitamin E, Xanthan Gum (seaweed derived thickener). 48 servings (1/4 tsp) with 30 mg of progesterone per serving.

Suggested use for adults:

Progesterone, being a small, fat-soluble molecule, is easily absorbed through the skin. For general application, skin sites recommended include the inner areas of the thighs and arms, neck, upper chest and abdomen. The site should be rotated daily for maximum absorption. Allow 2-3 months for maximum effect.

Karuna Hypoallergenic Natural Progesterone Pure is specifically designed for two populations: (1) male patients who need progesterone; and (2) all people suffering with skin sensitivities or allergies. Progesterone plays a critical role in men’s health, contributing to healthy endocrine system balance without feminizing characteristics. A precursor to testosterone and adrenal cortical hormone, progesterone supports healthy bone density and may be important in connection with BPH, prostatism and prostate cancer. For many people, the incidence of skin sensitivities and allergies is rising. Chemicals found in cosmetic skin creams, particularly synthetic fragrances and preservatives, are causative agents for skin sensitivities and allergies. Karuna Natural Progesterone Cream is a hypoallergenic formula free from all synthetic fragrances, emulsifiers, emollients, fillers, alcohol, and preservatives.

For more information about Progesterone, please review Virginia Hopkins Health Watch:

This is an extensive library of useful articles and information, including a Hormone Balance Test developed by Dr. John Lee, Dr. David Zava and Virginia Hopkins. Topics covered include progesterone FAQs, progesterone and estrogen effects, estrogen dominance, male hormones, saliva hormone testing, getting off HRT and getting started on natural hormones.