Perimenopause can cause hot flashes, mood swings and bodily changes that often are uncomfortable. It is a transitional period in a woman's life that results in lower production of estrogen and progesterone, slowing of ovulation and eventually the ending of menstruation. It is a purely natural occurrence but one that usually comes with symptoms such as headaches, heart palpitations, insomnia, vaginal dryness, joint aches and pains and an irregular heartbeat. There are lifestyle choices and alternative options that can help to reduce these symptoms.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the term used to describe the years prior to menopause when menstruation has stopped. During perimenopause, hormone levels are declining but still support sporadic menstruation. Menopause normally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and is called postmenopause when a woman has not had her period for at least 12 months, according to MedlinePlus. Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause can last for more than five years but are usually at their worst in the first one to two years after the last menstrual period.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is the main herbal ingredient in Remifemin, a natural herbal over-the-counter product sold to help reduce the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, according to Remifemin.com. The company reports that it extracts the active ingredients from black cohosh using an isopropanolic method that yields a more complete spectrum of compounds than other manufacturing methods. Black cohosh has been used for more than two centuries, dating to Native Americans who discovered the root helped relieve menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Method of Action
The way in which black cohosh works in the body still is under investigation. Doctors at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center advise their patients that there is conflicting data as to whether the herb has an estrogen-type effect on the body. Studies have shown that there is no effect on other female hormones, such as LH, FSH, prolactin or estradiol. There is some suggestion that this estrogen-independent pathway works through Her2 signaling. Her2 signaling pathways normally are activated through the presence of ligands, according to Genentech.
Side Effects
Herbal remedies have chemical interactions in the body and can therefore interact with other drugs being taken and also can have side effects. High doses of black cohosh can result in abdominal pain, diarrhea, joint pain, nausea, tremors, visual dimness, headache, dizziness and weight gain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. You should not use black cohosh if you have a history of breast cancer or a high risk of it. Cases of liver toxicity also have been reported, but a direct association with black cohosh was not demonstrated in these cases. Pregnant and women who are breastfeeding should avoid using this herbal supplement because it can lead to contractions and premature labor.
