The symptoms of perimenopause--a transition period before a woman enters menopause, which can last up to ten years--can be uncomfortable. Hot flashes, irregular periods, mood changes, insomnia, sweats, forgetfulness, dry, itchy skin, headaches, digestive problems, heart palpitations, and achy joints are just some of the symptoms that women can experience. There are herbal remedies available that can assist in reducing symptoms and helping a woman feel more comfortable during this phase of her life.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh works well in treating hot flashes and mood swings that accompany perimenopause. It is thought that this North American herb contains phytoestrogens, which are chemicals found in certain plants that act like the human hormone estrogen. In fact, some people call black cohosh a dietary estrogen. The German government has approved black cohosh as a prescription alternative to hormone replacement therapy.
Mexican Wild Yam
Most natural progesterone creams contain the herb Mexican wild yam. This herb is thought to have properties that might be similar to the progesterone that the body makes. Many women have discovered that using natural progesterone cream with wild yam can reduce an array of perimenopausal symptoms.
Licorice Root
One of the more uncomfortable symptoms of perimenopause is night sweats. Licorice root may reduce night sweats. Because licorice root is an anti-inflammatory and an immune booster, it can help with other symptoms such as headaches and depression that can also crop up during perimenopause. This root can replace estrogen that women lose during this phase of their life through plant estrogens. Some women report that licorice root gives them energy and helps fight the fatigue that can accompany perimenopause.
Motherwort
Perimenopause is about transitioning and with that comes certain stresses. It doesn't make mood swings much easier for the perimenopausal woman. Motherwort is an herb that can soothe tension and help level out mood swings. Because of its calming effect, motherwort can help with heart palpitations. In addition, some women remark that it helps with hot flashes. Motherwort is best brewed as a refreshing tea to drink several times a day.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is a Chinese herb that is sometimes called "the female ginseng." It helps with concentration and memory loss that is associated with perimenopause. Dong quai can help regulate a woman's period. This is important since irregular menstrual cycles are so prevalent during perimenopause. Dong quai may also maintain female hormones.
References
- The Wisdom of Menopause; Christiane Northrup; 2003
- New Menopausal Years, The Wise Woman Way; Susun S. Weed; 2001
- The Herbal Menopause Book: Herbs, Nutrition and Other Natural Therapies; Amanda M. Crawford; 1996
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