But for Sophie Medlin, director and specialist dietitian at CityDietitians, not enough high-quality research exists yet on a lot of herbs and herbal extracts to say exactly how they can help with hormonal health.

“It’s really understandable that people will want to use a more natural alternative to support their cycles than what modern medicine can offer us. What’s really difficult is the fact that herbal treatments for hormonal health combine two very under-researched areas: herbal treatments and women’s health.”

Richardson argues that “evidence for herbal medicine is always growing” but stresses that “the best way to get the quickest and longest-lasting results is to work one-on-one with a herbalist. [Herbs] aren’t benign substances; just because a herb is natural, that doesn’t mean it can do no harm.” Often, she says, that harm is done because poor quality herbs are used or applied in the wrong way. Herbs can also interreact with drugs, “so seeing a herbalist could be the key to using herbs and drugs alongside each other”.

And, of course, herbs – as with plenty of pharmaceuticals – can be dangerous. It’s obviously a bad idea to go foraging for mushrooms, for example, if you’re not trained in mushroom identification. “I find it very curious that herbs are either thought of as ineffective but potentially poisonous or effective and totally safe,” Richardson says. “We’re accustomed to accepting side effects from taking prescribed drugs, but are so easily scared off a plant if the slightest warning is given.” As with most things, your best bet is to work with a professional.

The big herbalist revival: why are so many of us trying herbs for hormonal health?