A woman is in menopause when she has not experienced menses for at least one full year. For most women, it occurs somewhere between 50 and 52 years of age. This stage in a woman's life may be met with mixed feelings. On one hand, you may enjoy not having to worry about pregnancy or monthly periods. On the other, you may dread the bothersome symptoms associated with the change of life -- hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, fatigue, problems sleeping and the extra pounds. Hormone replacement therapy is the mainstay of treatment. However, synthetic estrogens are not without risks. Consequently, some women seek herbal remedies as alternatives.
Soy
Soy is a plant that contains phytoestrogens called isoflavones. Phytoestrogens are substances that mimic the action of the female hormone estrogen. During menopause your ovaries stop producing this hormone. You can get soy from foods such as soy milk, soybeans and tofu. There are also soy-containing supplements available on the market.
Soy isoflavones have been used to treat hot flashes associated with menopause. However, evidence supporting its effectiveness is conflicting. Some studies suggest moderate relief, others suggest no relief; or the placebo effect. Possible side effects include constipation, diarrhea, nausea, bloating, and/or headache. Do not use soy-containing supplements if you have or had breast cancer.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is an herb in which the roots are used for medicinal purposes. In the treatment of menopause, it is used to relieve hot flashes. However, study results regarding its effectiveness are inconsistent. The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database reported a study in which an over-the-counter product containing black cohosh showed a modest benefit in the treatment of hot flashes. Participants had fewer episodes, according to the database.
Possible side effects include, headache, stomach cramps, rash, vaginal bleeding or spotting. Black cohosh may also cause serious liver damage. If you experience abdominal pain, jaundice -- yellowing of eyes and skin, fatigue and dark-colored urine, consult your doctor.
Red Clover
Red clover, also known as sweet clover, has been used to treat hot flashes. Evidence of its effectiveness for hot flashes is mixed. Studies reported in the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database suggest that red clover was not better than placebo in decreasing the frequency of hot flashes, but superior in its onset of symptom relief.
References
- "Pharmacy Times": Easing Menopausal Symptoms
- Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database
- "Pharmacy Times": Relieving Menopausal Symptoms with Black Cohosh and Soy
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine
- Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Menopausal Symptoms and CAM
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Black Cohosh
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