Every woman going through menopause is likely to experience the process differently, but many women have a few symptoms in common; hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, mood swings and fatigue. For those who don't want to start hormone replacement therapy, alternatives exist, including natural herbs which have been used by women for thousands of years to treat and reduce symptoms associated with menopause.
Before embarking on any supplementation for menopausal symptoms, consult your health care practitioner for advisement.
Black Cohosh
Many women take black cohosh as a supplement or in tea form to help control and alleviate hot flashes, according to Project Aware. Scientific evidence as to its validity is scant, although the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, or NCCAM at the National Institutes of Health, is currently conducting research to explore the efficacy of black cohosh for this purpose. Black cohosh can be taken alone or in combination with other herbs such as licorice root and dong quai. Other complementary herbs include chickweed, violet and elder.
Licorice
According to Holistic Online, an alternative health website, licorice, either in supplement or natural form in tea is a common menopausal remedy for the insomnia that often accompanies menopause. Licorice should not be taken long-term without discussing it with your primary health care provider, according to Project Aware, as long-term use may cause water retention and high blood pressure.
Motherwort
Motherwort is an herb that may be used to help decrease not only hot flashes, but also heart palpitations or racing heartbeat common in many women experiencing menopause. The herb is known as a cardiac-healthy herb that acts like a tonic for nerves, insomnia and its other calming effects. Used for hundreds of years in Europe, China and by the Native Americans, motherwort can be taken several times a day. Read package instructions for proper use.
St. John's Wort
St. John's Wort has been used by women to treat mild depression caused by menopause and decrease in natural hormones in the body, according to the Mayo Clinic. St. John's Wort is believed to help replenish serotonin, the "feel-good" hormone produced in the brain for those experiencing depression described as mild to moderate when taken for at least one to three months. Speak to your primary health care provider for advice for using St. John's Wort, especially if you're currently taking other medications.
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