Menopause may produce a number of unpleasant symptoms for some women including mood swings, depression, dry skin, painful intercourse and hot flashes. These symptoms and others are the result of changing hormonal levels and in certain cases may be debilitating for the woman experiencing them. If you suffer from menopausal hot flashes, various natural supplements may be helpful in relieving your symptoms. Some supplements and herbs may produce side effects, so consult a health practitioner before starting any new treatments.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil contain phytoestrogens, which are plant based, estrogen-like compounds that may help control hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center -- UMMC. Flaxseed and their oil contain both isoflavones and lignans, both of which are reputed to help reduce hot flashes resulting from changing hormone levels. In addition to the healthful benefits provided by their phytoestrogen properties, flaxseeds also contain alpha-linolenic acid, a compound converted into Omega-3 fatty acids. Because women in menopause are at higher risk of developing heart disease due to reduced estrogen supplies, increasing Omega-3 fatty acids in your diet may bring additional health benefits, according to UMMC. Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil supplements can be purchased at health food stores.
Red Clover
Red clover is an herb used for a variety of conditions including the treatment of menopausal symptoms. It is high in isoflavones, a plant-based form of estrogen also referred to as phytoestrogens. The herb may help relieve your menopausal symptoms including hot flashes and vaginal dryness due it these estrogen-like properties. Science has not yet been able to prove the effects of red clover on menopausal symptoms; however, anecdotal evidence from years of use by herbalists and women in menopause speak to the efficacy of this herb. It is available for purchase at health food stores. Red clover may cause side effects, so consult your health practitioner for directions before using it.
Black Cohosh
The University of Connecticut Health Center writes that along with phytoestrogens found in soy, red clover and flaxseed, Black cohosh provides one of the best remedies for the relief of menopausal hot flashes, and night sweats. They add that it may affect the area of the hypothalamus that controls the regulation of body temperature. Black cohosh supplements are available at health food stores. Black cohosh may produce side effects such as weight gain, headaches and indigestion. Consult your health practitioner before adding this supplement to your menopausal treatment regimen.
References
- "Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition"; Audrey H. Ensminger; 1995
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Menopause
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Red Clover
- University of Connecticut Health Center: Major CAM Treatments for Menopause
