Menopausal hot flashes are only one of several uncomfortable symptoms that many women may experience at the onset of and throughout menopause. Certain natural remedies, herbs, homeopathic medicines and dietary changes have been shown to help some women by reducing hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, depression and other symptoms associated with menopause. Because some herbs may cause side effects, consult a health practitioner before starting any new treatments.
Phytoestrogens
A diet high in phytoestrogens may be helpful in improving the incidence of hot flashes for some women. The University of Naples, Italy reported on a study performed in 2005 where women were given phytoestrogens for hot flashes and vaginal dryness associated with menopause. Researchers found that products high in isoflavones, a compound found in phytoestrogens, were effective in reducing the incidence of hot flashes, vaginal dryness and other menopausal symptoms. Phytoestrogens are found mostly in foods and mimic the action of estrogen on the body. Foods highest in isoflavones are soy products including soy milk, tofu, fermented soy foods, and raw soybeans. Flax seeds and flax seed oil are high in both, isoflavones and lignans, another form of phytoestrogen. Other foods with a high level of phytoestrogens are apples, nuts, seeds and legumes.
The suggested serving size is 45 grams of phytoestrogens daily. Soy products may cause stomach discomfort for some people, so consult your health practitioner if you experience any discomfort after eating or drinking soy-based foods.
Homeopathic Cimicifuga Racemosa
The homeopathic remedy Cimicifuga racemosa or Cimicifuga is often given to women experiencing menopausal hot flashes, according to homeopath Dr. Roger Morrison in the "Desktop Guide." The remedy is indicated if you suffer from hot flashes, are depressed with severe mood swings, and have accompanying headaches that are worse on the right side of your head and neck. Cimicifuga is available over-the-counter at health food stores and from online homeopathic pharmacies. Consult a homeopath before using this remedy for dosing guidelines.
Dong Quai
The Chinese herb Dong quai has been used for centuries to treat menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It is still in use today by herbalists in both Eastern and Western medicine. Although scientific research is lacking, anecdotal evidence indicates that Dong quai may be helpful for relieving hot flashes in some women. You can use Dong quai as a liquid extract or take it in powdered form in capsules. Because there are no recommended dosages for Dong quai, consult with your herbalist or health practitioner for individual directions for dosing.
References
- Minerva Ginecologica; The effects of phytoestrogen therapy on the endometrium in postmenopausal women; L. Caserta, Oct. 2005
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Dong Quai
- "Desktop Guide"; Dr. Roger Morrison; 1993
