Menopause is not a disease, but a natural process and stage of life that every woman will experience around the age of 50. Some women sail through menopause with no unpleasantness, while others experience symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings and fatigue, to name a few. Proper diet and exercise, along with nutritional supplements, vitamins and herbal remedies taken in the years leading up to menopause can make your experience less difficult.
Phytoestrogens
The phytoestrogens found in many plant extracts have a tonic effect on the female organs and glandular system, working to nourish them by improving blood flow and delivering vital nutrients and fuel to them. According to Dr. James Balch in the journal Prescription for Nutritional Healing, "Japanese women generally experience far fewer symptoms of menopause than do Western women" due to their plant-based diets.
Four Best Herbs for Menopause
The four best herbs for relieving menopausal symptoms are dong quai, licorice root, chaste berry and black cohosh. Combining them into synergistic blends can make them even more effective than taking them individually. Each of these herbs has a positive effect on female organs, as well as your pituitary gland, where sex hormones are produced.
Evening Primrose Oil
The essential oil extracted from the evening primrose plant offers relief from numerous menopausal and pre-menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, heavy bleeding and cramps. Native American women sometimes chew evening primrose seeds to alleviate menstrual discomfort.
Vitamins B and E
Vitamin B complex is helpful in relieving depression and anxiety, with B5 being known as the anti-stress vitamin. Reducing stress can provide comfort at mid-life and decrease menopausal symptoms. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that improves circulation and is useful in treating PMS and menopause symptoms.
Kombucha Tea
Kombucha is commonly referred to as a mushroom, but is actually a large, flat, fungus-like growth that is a combination of lichen, bacteria and yeast. It is fermented and made into a tea that contains a variety of nutrients and can be purchased commercially or made at home. The tea has been used for thousands of years for many purposes, including the relief of menopausal symptoms.
Warning
As always, care and moderation should be practiced when using herbal therapy. Side effects are rare, but they can cause allergic reactions or interact negatively with prescription medications for some people. Consult with your health care provider or a qualified herbalist if treating severe menopausal symptoms.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herbs and Supplements for Menopause
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Dr. James Balch; 1997
- "The Wisdom of Menopause"; Dr. Christiane Northrup; 2006
