Hot flashes are a very common side effect of menopause. According to the book, "Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health," about 75 percent of menopausal women experience either recurring or occasional hot flashes. Natural remedies for hot flashes work to stabilize your body's fluctuating hormone levels by using herbal supplements and teas as opposed to synthetic cures.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a fairly common remedy for hot flashes. "Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health" says that this herb aids menopause because it steadies the body's response to temperature changes by stimulating the adrenal glands. This increases your body's production of hormones, including estrogen. The book suggests eating 1/8 inch of ginseng root daily or taking 1/4 tsp. of ginseng tincture twice daily to reduce the intensity and occurrence of hot flashes.
Red Clover
"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Menopause" says that red clover is gaining speed as a natural remedy for hot flashes. The herb, which is most often consumed as a tea, contains strong phytoestrogens that mimic the action of estrogen in your body. These natural components can help battle hot flashes, as well as other menopause symptoms such as chills. You can consume two to three cups of red clover tea each day to fight hot flashes. (See Reference 2)
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is an herbal remedy for hot flashes that comes from the roots of a North American wildflower. Its primary use in menopause is to ease hot flashes and vaginal dryness. It is available in capsule form in many drugstores, and you should follow the instructions on the pill bottle for best results as dosages can vary. Dried black cohosh for making herbal tea is also sold in may health food stores. Drink one to two cups of the tea each day.
References
- "Rosemary Gladstar's Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health;" Rosemary Gladstar; 2008
- "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Menopause;" Maureen Miller Pelletier; 2000
