Jooce. Kiko. Zoie. Bluum. For many Nigerians and West Africans, these names might sound novel, but they’re fast becoming popular as emerging brands in the women’s supplement space. Offering new approaches to tackle menstrual disorders and the difficult symptoms of menopause, they stand out in a market that has largely overlooked women’s unique hormonal health needs. But what do these so-called hormone-balancing supplements promise, how do they work, and can they deliver real relief?
Why Women’s Health Still Gets Overlooked
Despite strides in medical innovation, women’s health—especially concerns around menstruation, fertility issues like PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), and menopause—often remains shuffled to the bottom of healthcare priorities. According to a 2020 study, just 5% of worldwide health research and development focused on women’s health, with only a sliver (1%) set aside for non-cancer issues. A report by McKinsey Health Institute and the World Economic Forum notes that women globally live longer than men but spend 25% more of their lives in compromised health—a gap that equates to about nine years spent coping with pain or disability.
In Nigeria, conversations with women in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, Accra, and across the sub-region echo similar frustrations: long waits for diagnosis, expensive treatments, and solutions that often require surgery for conditions like endometriosis. In fact, the only certain way to diagnose endometriosis remains surgical, and it’s not uncommon for women to wait nearly a decade before even getting an answer. For many, especially in Africa where access to advanced care is limited, the need for easier, affordable relief is urgent.
Hormone-Balancing Supplements: Disrupting the Status Quo
Rather than waiting for public health authorities to ramp up support, local entrepreneurs and independent brands are stepping in to fill the gap. For the typical West African woman, ingredients like magnesium citrate, zinc, vitamin E, and B vitamins might sound familiar, being core parts of daily diets or local herbal remedies. Some, like maca root and ashwagandha—traditionally used in other cultures for energy and stress—are now featured in period or menopause supplements, blending local wisdom with international science. To test the landscape, WH sampled a few options currently generating buzz.
Personal Review: Primeve Plus
“Primeve Plus is built around evening primrose oil—something I’ve tried to help manage fibrocystic breast pain, but its real surprise for me was its effectiveness against PMS symptoms. With added magnesium for better sleep, I noticed relief almost immediately. The pain in my breasts eased, and even their size reduced noticeably.”
– Pia, Creative Director
Personal Review: Zoie Health Cycle Calm
“I’ve been using Cycle Calm for months now. I always take it before and during my period—it really helps manage mood swings and cramps, thanks largely to the magnesium. Plus, it’s actually tasty, which is a big plus when those sweet cravings hit.”
– Chamain, Digital Editor
Is a Hormone-Balancing Revolution Underway?
Scroll through Instagram and you’ll see hundreds of glowing testimonials across Africa, the UK, and the US—from clearer skin to more regular cycles and reduced pain. One woman even claimed her period returned after a year’s absence. However, according to South African endocrinologist Dr. Kalantsho Maoto (femicarefertility.co.za), the term “hormone balancing” may mislead. “These supplements can influence certain hormone-related conditions, but they aren’t direct hormone balancers,” Dr. Maoto stated. He explained that their effects are more about regulating inflammation and other processes than simply ‘balancing’ hormones.
While Nigerian and Ghanaian women have long relied on traditional remedies for hormonal illnesses, research now backs up some adaptogens. Scientific studies indicate that herbs like ashwagandha may ease menopause and menstrual symptoms. But as Dr. Maoto notes, these conditions—PCOS, endometriosis, fibroids—are systemic and complex, often involving immune function and inflammation along with hormones. So while supplements might ease symptoms in multiple ways, they’re rarely a one-size-fits-all solution.
In the case of inositol—widely found in PCOS-targeted products—Dr. Maoto reports it may help lower inflammation and stabilise insulin, which can indirectly reduce symptoms. However, he cautions that the science isn’t settled. Larger studies are still needed to confirm these benefits, and results can vary between individuals. “Ultimately, we need to see if supplements improve outcomes like fertility or quality of life—not just symptom relief,” he explains.
Inside the Ingredients: What’s at Work?
Despite the ongoing debate, companies are working to provide options for managing painful, disruptive menstrual and menopausal symptoms. In an interview, Naznin Bhom, a pharmacist academic intern at Zoie Health (a tech-driven women’s health company serving Nigeria and South Africa), said their supplement line is designed by pharmacists, dietitians, and gynaecologists. “We select ingredients based on scientific research, safety, and their ability to address the most pressing health needs of women,” Bhom stated, emphasising their focus on evidence and synergy.
For West African markets, it is particularly notable that many ingredients have deep roots in African herbal medicine, such as chaste tree berry, green rooibos, and African potato. According to Bhom, “Chaste tree berry is an age-old remedy for menstrual discomfort and fertility, while green rooibos—native to South Africa—offers anti-inflammatory and anti-ageing powers.”
Such supplements may help regulate cycles, curb PMS, and even address hormonal acne—a major concern for young women across Nigeria. As Bhom explains, “Hormones are potent messengers in the body. Having too much or too little can cause skin problems, mood swings, or fertility issues, so supplements that stabilise hormones may have wide-ranging benefits.” Many women, she adds, observe improvements in skin clarity and pain levels within weeks.
Spotlight on Popular Ingredients
These are some of the trending components in many modern hormone health supplements:
A legendary adaptogen, ashwagandha is gaining popularity among perimenopausal women worldwide—including in Africa—for reportedly easing symptoms when taken over eight weeks. Science is young but testimonials remain encouraging.
B1 and B6 vitamins may help reduce menstrual pain and premenstrual symptoms, especially when combined. Studies like this support their use for easier periods.
Chasteberry may help balance menstrual cycles by
boosting progesterone and reducing levels of prolactin. It’s long valued for relieving PMS and irregular periods.
Already familiar for its immune help, zinc is also a key nutrient for PCOS, reported to decrease insulin resistance and reduce excess hair growth.
A healthy gut biome supports hormone regulation by facilitating nutrient absorption and removing excess hormones. New research (2019 NIH study) highlights how probiotics contribute to hormone production.
Longer-term use may improve PMS and overall wellbeing, as shown in a Journal of Psychosomatic Obstetrics and Gynaecology trial among women aged 20–35.
Are Hormone-Balancing Supplements Safe for African Women?
Medical opinion generally confirms safety for most common ingredients—but it’s always important to check with a healthcare professional. Dr. Maoto said, “Most supplements don’t pose a significant risk. Many of their nutrients—like vitamin D, inositol, zinc—are already present in our diets. The real danger is only in excess or neglecting proper diagnosis.”
Naznin Bhom, from Zoie Health, highlighted the appeal for many women wary of pharmaceutical side effects: “These supplements offer a non-invasive, natural alternative or complement to hormonal therapies, letting African women manage disorders more personally and affordably.”
However, both experts add that eating a balanced diet—rich in leafy greens, local veggies, and healthy oils—may make supplements unnecessary for some. “With proper nutrition, most women get what they need naturally,” Dr. Maoto explained. The advice? Focus on food first, supplement where necessary.
Top Hormone Health Supplements Available (and Where to Buy Them)
Here are several options available both locally and for international order, promising symptom relief and hormonal balance:
Bluum Menopause Support
Designed for the journey from perimenopause to menopause, Bluum targets hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and more—key complaints echoed by Nigerian and Ghanaian women entering this life stage.
Vitamin Me PMS Support + Hormone Balance
Formulated with vitamins and minerals proven to address PMS and hormone imbalances, this supplement is widely used by women seeking non-pharmaceutical relief across Africa.
Solal Hormone Balance Natural HRT
Combining chasteberry, black cohosh, and vitamin D, Solal provides a botanical take on hormone therapy. It aims to support women through painful periods and reduce osteoporosis risk during menopause.
Kiko Vitals Hormone Balance
This herbal supplement uses African staples like Dong Quai, maca, and ashwagandha to regulate the cycle, targeting issues like acne and menstrual irregularity common to many West African women.
Jooce Hormone Balance Powder
With myo-inositol, magnesium, and folic acid, Jooce’s blend focuses on ovarian function and controlling hormonal acne—a fast-rising concern among young Nigerian women.
Zoie Health PCOS Pro
Tailored for women with PCOS, this supplement aims to restore metabolic wellness and hormonal balance. Subscription options provide continuous support—useful in managing chronic conditions.
How do you manage menstrual pain or menopause symptoms? Have you tried any hormone-balancing supplements from brands like Jooce, Kiko, or Zoie—what were your results? Are traditional remedies more effective for you, or do you believe supplements are the future?
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