Menopause is a natural part of a woman's life. While some women have symptoms that are barely noticeable, for others symptoms disrupt their lives. Getting symptom relief from menopause can come from alternative therapies, prescription hormonal therapies and some over-the-counter remedies. Before starting any medication, whether herbs or over-the-counter supplements, check with your doctor to make sure the medicine is right for you.
Sage
Used for centuries as both a kitchen spice and a herbal remedy, sage is used in Europe for upset stomach, mouth inflammation, throat inflammation and excess sweating. Wellness.com cites studies in which it has been shown to be effective in cognitive improvement and mood enhancement through clinical trials and shows promising results as a menopause symptom reliever. Side effects include upset stomach, restlessness, dizziness and vomiting.
Kudzu
The vine that ate the south, kudzu has been a herbal remedy for hundreds of years. A traditional Chinese remedy for alcoholism and diabetes, it is in clinical trials for many ailments. According to wellness.com, more clinical testing is needed, as studies are mixed about kudzu's use in menopausal symptoms relief. Side effects include weight loss, low body temperature and the possibility of red blood cell destruction.
Hops
Hops is used for relaxation and sedation but also has phytoestrogens, which are plant-based estrogen-like agents. These are being studied in clinical trials for use in treating menopausal symptoms. According to wellness.com, side effects include difficulty breathing, dry cough, drowsiness and slowed breathing. Large amounts of hops can trigger seizures, restlessness, stomach pain and vomiting.
Green Tea
With a long history of use in Chinese medicine, green tea is in clinical trials for a wide variety of ailments. Some clinical trials have made promising starts using green tea to treat menopausal symptoms. Women who took a morning and evening formula containing green tea showed a lowering of hot flashes and sleep disturbances, according to Medline Plus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Side effects include increased blood sugar, high heart rate, high blood pressure and insomnia.
