Natural Supplements For Hot Flashes

Hot flashes can be an uncomfortable and debilitating side effect of menopause for some women. Caused by the change in hormone levels, hot flashes may interfere with your daily activities and prevent sleep. Various foods, supplements and other natural remedies are available for the treatment of hot flashes and may provide relief. Herbal treatments may cause side effects, so before starting any new herbal remedy, consult your health practitioner.

Homeopathic Sepia

Sepia, a homeopathic remedy, is widely used in the treatment of menopausal symptoms and may offer some women relief from hot flashes and other associated symptoms, according to Dr. Margaret Tyler in "Homeopathic Drug Pictures." Homeopathic remedies are prepared from natural sources using minute amounts of that substance. The remedies initiate the body's natural response to stimulus, allowing the body to heal itself, according to the National Center for Homeopathy.

If Sepia is the correct remedy for treating your symptoms, you may experience hot flashes and feel chilly at other times. You may be moody, irritable, cry easily and be disinterested in doing your work or taking care of responsibilities. In addition, you may have other menopausal symptoms such as dryness of the vagina, pain during intercourse or dry skin. Sepia is available over-the-counter from health food stores. Consult a homeopath for directions for dosing.

Black Cohosh Extract

Herbal practitioners have used the extract of the herb Black Cohosh for centuries to treat menopausal women. It may prove effective in reducing your hot flashes along with lessening vaginal dryness, itching and irritation, according to "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Always use Black Cohosh under the supervision of an experienced health practitioner because it can produce side effects. Taking large doses may cause liver damage, stomach pain and headaches, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. It is available for purchase in most health food stores.

Moxa Treatments

Moxa treatments or Moxibustion therapy is a practice associated with Oriental medicine and acupuncture that involves burning the herb mugwort near an individual's acupoints, stimulating the person's qi or life energy, according to The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. A study conducted by the Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea in July of 2009 reported in the journal, "Menopause" that Moxa treatment may relieve the frequency and severity of menopausal hot flashes. More research is needed to support these findings. If you are looking for a Moxibustion therapist, consult with local acupuncturists, who may also practice Moxa treatments.