Menopause is a not a disease; it’s a natural part of a woman’s life cycle. Still, if you’re starting to experience hot flashes and other symptoms associated with “the change,” you may be anxious to find relief. Conventional treatment typically consists of synthetic hormone replacement, a therapy that may increase the risk of certain cancers. Some herbs may help, but they may also present risks. See your doctor about a treatment plan that’s right for you.
Black Cohosh
Also known as squaw root, women have traditionally used black cohosh to relieve menopause symptoms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, black cohosh has been the subject of numerous studies: Some show a clear benefit in reducing menopausal symptoms, while others do not. Some studies suggest that the herb contains phytoestrogens, or plant-based estrogens. However, the center says this has not yet been confirmed.
The National Institutes of Health, on the other hand, maintains that several well-designed studies show positive results. For example, German researchers conducted a 1985 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 80 menopausal women that showed that an extract of black cohosh, given as Remifemin tablets, provided as much or more relief from hot flashes and other menopause-related symptoms than placebo or estrogen therapy.
This herb is not associated with serious side effects, but it is not intended for long-term use beyond six months. A few isolated cases of liver toxicity have been reported. Other potential side effects of black cohosh include stomach upset and headache. However, due possible estrogenic effects, you should not use this herb if you are undergoing hormone therapy replacement or treatment for breast or uterine cancer. Consult your physician to determine if it's contraindicated for you.
Red Clover
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, red clover contains isoflavones that exert estrogenic effects. The center also says that this herb has shown positive results in improving various menopause-related symptoms, including reducing hot flashes and the risk for developing osteoporosis, while improving circulation and HDL cholesterol levels.
On July 15, 2004, a summary of an evidence-based position statement drafted by the North American Menopause Society, or NAMS, was published in "American Family Physician," which outlined practice guidelines regarding the treatment of menopause symptoms. While the authors state that clinical studies on the effectiveness of isoflavone supplements have produced conflicting results, they still recommend that physicians consider the use of plant-based isoflavones in treating symptoms of menopause, particularly hot flashes.
Minor side effects are associated with red clover, such as headache and nausea. However, due to the presence of isoflavones, you should avoid this herb if you are undergoing hormone replacement therapy or treatment for a hormone-driven cancer or if you are taking blood-thinning medications. NAMS also states that the long-term effects of red clover have not been confirmed, and women should take red clover only under physician supervision.
Chinese Herbs
NAMS does not recommend the use of Chinese herb combinations to treat hot flashes. A study published in the Feb. 23, 2007, issue of "Gynecological Endocrinology" did report that one combination formula containing chaste-tree berry, milk thistle, American ginseng, red clover and dong quai significantly reduced hot flashes, as well as sleep disturbances, in both perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. However, these beneficial effects began to subside after three months.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Black Cohosh
- National Institutes of Health: Black Cohosh
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Red Clover
- “American Family Physician”; NAMS Releases Position Statement on the Treatment of Vasomotor Symptoms Associated with Menopause; Matthew J. Neff; July 15, 2004
- “Gynecological Endocrinology”; Phyto-Female Complex for the Relief of Hot Flushes, Night Sweats and Quality of Sleep: Randomized, Controlled, Double-blind Pilot Study; C. Rotem et al.; Feb. 23, 2007
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