Menopause is part of the natural progression of life. Undesirable symptoms of menopause happen when poor choices in diet and lifestyle cause imbalances in the body, according to Christine Horner, M.D., in her book "Waking the Warrior Goddess." Restoring balance naturally is the solution, and vitamins and herbs can help.
Vitamin E
Using vitamin E to control hot flashes works for some women. A daily dose of 400 IU of vitamin E as mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols is recommended. However some women have found taking vitamin E doses of 800 IU helpful in reducing hot flashes, a common menopause symptom.
B Vitamins
B vitamins as are a group of water-soluble vitamins may help women deal with the stress of menopausal symptoms. Taking 200 to 250 mg of vitamin B-6 daily is helpful for hot flashes associated with menopause, and vitamin B-12 can help boost your energy.
Black Cohosh
Also known as Cumicifuga racemosa, black cohosh is a popular herb for sufferers of menopausal symptoms. Black cohosh seems to work by supporting and maintaining hormonal levels of menopausal women, according to Dr. Andrew Weil. While many women have reported that black cohosh has worked well for their symptoms, Dr. Weil cautions that it is not effective for all women. Herbal dosages should be discussed with your nutritionist.
Dong Quai
A Chinese herb known for maintaining and supporting female hormones, dong quai is also called Angelica sinensis. It does not have estrogenic activity and should not be taken if heavy bleeding is one of your menopausal symptoms. Chinese herbs should only be taken under the direction of Chinese medicine practitioners.
Fish Oil and Evening Primrose Oil
Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that may reduce hot flashes and even slow bone loss. Evening primrose oil contains gamma-linolenic acid, which helps influence prostaglandin synthesis, assisting to moderate menopausal symptoms. Evening primrose oil is also recommended by naturopaths for menstrual cramping in both premenopausal and menopausal women.
Flax Seed
Flax seed contains naturally occurring lignans that are important for hormone modulation during menopause. Fifteen trials completed on phytoestrogens (contained in flax seed) have been proven beneficial for treating menopausal symptoms. Dosages are based on need, so speak with a nutritionist. Note that flax seeds are only useful when ground or taken as flax seed oil supplements, as whole flax seeds are not fully digestible.
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