Menopause is a time of changing hormones and unexpected symptoms for some women, including mood swings, depression, irritability, vaginal dryness, loss of energy, disinterest in sex and hot and cold flashes. Because reports indicate that conventional hormone replacement therapy may cause serious side effects, some women are seeking alternative methods of treatment for their symptoms. Herbal remedies may relieve hot and cold flashes. However, herbs may also cause side effects. Speak to your health practitioner before using unfamiliar herbs.
Red Clover
Red clover is an herb that has been used traditionally to treat many health issues related to the female cycle, including hot flashes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The herb is high in estrogen-based isoflavones, a plant-based compound that mimics the action of estrogen in a woman's body. Red clover may relieve your hot flashes, heighten your mood, relieve vaginal dryness and bring overall relief from many menopausal symptoms. Although more research is needed to uphold these claims, hundreds of years of anecdotal reports substantiate the positive benefits of this herb for women's health issues. Red clover is available in various forms at the health food store. Consult your health practitioner for the best dosing guidelines suited to your condition.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is another well-known herbal remedy for the treatment of hot flashes and night sweats. Black cohosh also contains high amounts of phytoestrogens, or plant-based estrogens, along with red clover, flaxseed and soybeans, according to the University of Connecticut Health Center. Traditional herbalists have recorded the benefits of black cohosh for the treatment of menopausal symptoms for hundreds of years. The chemicals in this herb may have an affect on the hypothalamus that controls body temperature, reports the University of Connecticut Health Center, making it an ideal choice for those women who are receptive to its medicinal effects. Black cohosh may thin the blood and cause headaches, weight gain and indigestion. Speak with your herbalist or health practitioner before using this herb.
Cayenne Pepper
During menopause and peri-menopause, cold flashes are often as much of a problem for some women as are hot flashes. Both cold and hot flashes are the result of hormone imbalances and shifting hormone levels. If you suffer from cold flashes, a pinch of cayenne pepper may help bring your internal thermometer back into balance. Cayenne pepper is both a culinary herb and a medicinal herb and has warming qualities, according to "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." One of the best ways to use cayenne pepper is by making a tea. Boil a cup of water and add a pinch of the pepper to taste and a spoonful of honey. Cayenne pepper can create a very hot sensation in the mouth and throat, so caution should be used when adding it to meals and tea. Adjust its quantity slowly as you get used to its warming effects to relieve cold flashes.
References
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Red Clover
- University of Connecticut Health Center: Major CAM Treatments for Menopause
