Menopause causes a sudden drop in the estrogen levels of women, which can cause uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes, discomfort, and hair growth. Many women fear this experience, which can cause some to feel as though they are losing aspects of their womanhood, particularly the new inability to have children. Numerous herbal remedies have been used for centuries to treat the effects of menopause. Not all have been backed up by scientific studies, but all are still used to various degrees today.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh contains chemical elements which are believed to replicate the actions of estrogen when consumed. This can help alleviate the symptoms of menopause, particularly hot flashes, sleep disorders and depression, and make the process more bearable. However, the efficacy of black cohosh has been mixed in medical studies, with some claiming its benefit and others dismissing it as a viable remedy. Black cohosh can also cause side effects when consumed, such as low blood pressure and an upset stomach.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a very popular herb that is used for many purposes outside of treating menopause. It is often promoted as an adaptogen, meaning it works to help balance hormone levels in the body and improve an individual's ability to cope with stress. Ginseng is sometimes advertised as helping relieve menopause symptoms and increasing the desire to have sex, but no medical studies to date have confirmed this benefit.
Red Clover
According to Epigee.org, red clover has been shown in some medical studies to reduce the symptoms of menopause, particularly hot flashes and mood swings. It may also help combat osteoporosis, which becomes a greater threat to women in menopause due to the natural thinning of bone density. It may also reduce the risk of heart disease in many women.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is often mixed with other herbs for the treatment of menopause. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for problems relating to the female reproductive system. It is said to treat vaginal dryness in women and reduce hot flashes. However, it can make some women sensitive to sunlight and may thin your blood slightly. Dong quai has not been proven by medical studies to be an effective treatment on its own, but few studies have looked at the effects of dong quai when mixed with other herbs.
