Herbal Hormones For Menopause

Menopause, which is a natural phase in every woman's life, is marked by the cessation of the menstrual cycle. For some women, this time is an easy passage, while for others, it may be agonizing. As hormones change, uncomfortable symptoms may arise such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, depression and loss of sex drive. Reports that conventional hormone replacement may cause cancer have lead many women to use herbal hormone replacement. Herbs can cause side effects, and thus you should consult your health practitioner before using them.

Herbal Hormones

Herbal hormones are called phytoestrogens and are found in certain plants. The compounds in these plants are known as isoflavones and they mimic the effect of estrogen on the body. A study performed in 2005 at the University of Naples found that isoflavones helped reduce various menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

Some plants have properties that make them suitable for herbal hormone replacement. Conventional medicine refers to the drugs made from these plants as bio-identical hormones; however, many products called bio-identical hormones have been manufactured and may include some of the plant compounds as well as other chemicals, which may make them unsuitable for some women. Certain compounding pharmacies make bio-identical hormones to order from the actual herbs and do not add additional chemicals. Natural sources are available for all of herbal hormone replacements in grocery or health food stores. Contact a practitioner experienced in herbal medicine for guidelines for use in your particular situation.

Soy

The best source of estrogenic compounds from plant sources is soy. Phytoestrogens reduce hot flashes, strengthen the heart and may lessen the chance of developing osteoporosis. Soy-based foods are widely available and come in different products such as soy milk, tofu, soy supplements, fermented soy products and raw soybeans called edamame. However, some women are sensitive to soy and develop stomach problems. If you notice symptoms, try different products to see if they too bother you. Contact your practitioner or a nutritionist for advice. Different brands may not upset your digestion and may relieve some of your symptoms. If you have thyroid disease, do not eat soy products without first consulting your health practitioner.

Flaxseed

Flax seed and flaxseed oil are high in phytoestrogens and the oil contains isoflavones and lignans, which are reputed to relieve hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. In addition, flaxseeds are high in alpha-linolenic acid, which is converted into omega-3 fatty acids, and may protect the heart, much like estrogen does, after the onset of menopause.. Never heat flax seed or flaxseed oil as doing this destroys the nutrients. One of the most healthy ways to use flaxseeds is to grind them and sprinkle them on foods. Use the oil in smoothies or mixed in salad dressings to benefit from its phytoestrogens.

Red Clover

Red clover is an ancient herbal remedy that has been used in Native American and Eastern medicine to treat a wide variety of women's hormonal issues. It is high in both isoflavones and phytoestrogens and helps relieve a wide range of menopausal problems such as depression, mood changes, hot flashes, vaginal dryness and loss of sexual libido. Although there is little scientific research on this herbal treatment, hundreds of years of anecdotal reports from patients and herbalists point to its effectiveness for treating hormonal disorders during menopause. Red clover is available in health food stores; however, speak to your health practitioner about its use for your specific condition.

Wild Yam

Wild yam or Indian yam is used as a plant-based hormonal replacement in both Eastern and Western herbal medicine. It is primarily used to replace waning progesterone as women age and move into menopause. It is also used to help balance estrogen dominance in both menopausal and menstruating women. Wild yam is the active ingredient in most bio-identical progesterone creams provided in compounding pharmacies. Use caution if you use progesterone creams as side effects can occur such as mood changes and serious depression or suicidal thoughts. If you experience any of these symptoms, stop using the cream and contact your health practitioner for guidance.