A woman going through menopause often experiences symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, anxiety and depression. Many women prefer to turn to natural herbal remedies instead of traditional hormone replacement for relief.
Types
Some types of herbs used for hormone replacement include black cohosh, dong quai, wild yam, chaste tree, kava and gingko. Soy products are also commonly recommended.
Benefits
According to Holistic Online, soy can help to reduce hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Black cohosh can relieve uterine cramping and congestion, and chaste tree can relieve depression associated with menopause.
Side Effects
According to the National Research Center for Women and Families, herbs can cause side effects such as headaches, liver damage, rashes, heart palpitations and nausea and vomiting.
Warnings
Always tell your doctor about any herbal remedies you are taking. Some herbs can interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications. Do not take more than the dose recommended by your naturopath or physician as an overdose can occur
Efficacy
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medications states many herbs used for hormone replacement are not proven to reduce the symptoms of menopause. Very limited studies have been done in most cases.
