HRT, or hormone replacement therapy, is a treatment administered to many post-menopausal women. This treatment is intended to reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes. However, HRT is not without downsides. As Medline Plus notes, HRT can increase your risk of breast cancer, stroke and heart disease. For this reason, you may want to seek a natural alternative. You should consult your doctor before seeking any treatment to reduce the risk of side effects and ensure effectiveness.
Soy Products
As the health website Project AWARE explains, soy-based products can be helpful for menopausal women. This is because soy products contain phytoestrogens, which are plant-based compounds that perform similar activities to estrogen. Project AWARE notes, though, that the evidence, so far, does not support the use of soy products to relieve menopausal symptoms. It's activity in the brain is limited, which can reduce its effectiveness in combating night sweats. In addition, the website cautions that there has been some indication that soy may be contraindicated in breast cancer patients and requires application through a physician's guidance.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is an herbal supplement recommended by Project AWARE to combat hot flashes and other menopausal issues. Dong quai may help relax uterine muscles, according to the site, which notes that there have been animal studies to support this theory. Project AWARE suggests dong quai may be helpful in alleviating emotional and mental stresses caused by menopause. However, the treatment is not guaranteed to be effective.
Remifemin
Remifemin is an extract from the Cimicifuga racemosa, also called black cohosh. This plant-based remedy may be effective in treating menopausal symptoms, according to a 1991 study from the journal "Planta Medica." This study from German researchers at the University of Göttingen found that eight weeks of remifemin supplementation helped to balance hormone levels in women and rats. However, the side effects of this supplement occur more frequently, says Project AWARE, which advises you to consult a doctor before using to ensure safety and efficacy.
St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort is a supplement recommended for a variety of uses, and research indicates that it may be effective for menopausal symptoms. A University of Illinois investigation published in the November 2006 issue of the journal "Maturitas" found that St. John's Wort could be effective in treating mood disorders related to menopause. You should consult a doctor to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for you.
References
- Medline Plus: Hormone Replacement Therapy
- Project AWARE: Alternatives To HRT
- Project AWARE: Hot Flashes & Night Sweats - Alternative Remedies
- PubMed.gov: "Planta Medica"; Effects of Extracts from Cimicifuga Racemosa on Gonadotropin Release in Menopausal Women and Ovariectomized Rats; EM Duker et al; October 1991
- PubMed.gov: "Maturitas"; Contemporary Alternatives to Plant Estrogens for Menopause; SE Geller, L Studee; November 2006
