Menopause is an unavoidable phase in the life of a woman. The cessation of estrogen secretion in the ovaries marks the end of menstruation. The physical and emotional changes induced by estrogen deficiency during menopause could be alleviated with the help of herbal remedies.
Herbal Remedies For Menopause
Soy
Herbal remedies for menopause include intake of soy or isoflavones derived from soy. Soy is one of the richest dietary sources of isoflavones, a type of estrogen-like plant compound present in beans and legumes. Studies suggest that intake of soy food might provide moderate relief from the bothersome symptoms of menopause.
It could cause mild reduction in hot flashes. In addition, soy isoflavones might reduce the risks of estrogen sensitive endometrial and breasts cancers. The risks of developing hormone sensitive cancers are especially higher in postmenopausal women on hormone replacement therapy.
Menopause increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases in women. Soy isoflavones might reduce progression of fat build up in the coronary arteries by correcting the lipid balance in the blood. It could reduce the levels of low-density lipoprotein and triglycerides in the blood.
St. John’s Wort
Decline in estrogen level causes vasomoter instability in women approaching menopause. Inability to regulate the body temperature suddenly increases the body temperature, producing hot flashes.
By correcting vasomotor function, St. John’s wort could reduce the duration, frequency and severity of hot flashes. Moreover, the herb could improve sleep and enhance the quality of life in menopausal women. Hence, St. John’s wort is an important component in the herbal remedies for menopause.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is widely recommended for treating hot flashes. Studies suggest that the herb could help to heal abnormal thermoregulation that produces sudden increase in body warmth. The effect of black cohosh on sex hormones might provide relief from anxiety induced by the symptoms of menopause.
Red Clover
The isoflavones present in red clover might alleviate hot flashes. The phytoestrogen in the herb might reduce the risk of osteoarthritis and atherosclerosis in menopausal women. In addition, treatment with red clover is not associated with the risk of developing hormone-induced cancers of the breast and endometrium.
Evening Primrose
Gamolenic acid, present in evening primrose oil might provide relief from hot flashes. It is especially effective in reducing the frequency of nighttime flushes.
Pueraria Mirifica
Pueraria mirifica is a phytoestrogen rich herb widely used in Thai folk medicine in treating menopausal conditions triggered by dramatic reduction in estrogen secretion.
The estrogen-like effect of pueraria mirifica on the vaginal tissues helps to maintain the health of the vagina and prevents vaginal dryness, a common symptom of menopause. By activating estrogen receptors, the herb lowers the risk of high serum cholesterol, atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases and osteoarthritis in postmenopausal women.
Chaste Tree
Essential oil extracted from chaste tree leaves and fruits could provide relief from the symptoms of menopause. The leaf of chaste tree is especially effective in alleviating the emotional symptoms of menopause. Experimental studies suggest that chaste tree berry reduces the menopausal symptoms by activating the estrogen and progesterone receptors in the body.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.