An estimated 25 to 33 percent of menopausal women experience some symptoms related to the disorder. National Institutes of Health researchers estimate that half of all women will be in the menopausal age range by 2015. Most women will use hormone replacement therapy, the standard medical approach for treating menopausal symptoms. However, some women experience harmful reactions to medications or choose to supplement their treatment with natural therapies. Discuss herbal therapies with a physician before using them to ensure safety.
Dong Quai
Dong quai root has been used for centuries in Asian medicine. Today, the herb is primarily used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating women's reproductive disorders, including menopausal symptoms. The herb is known as "female ginseng," for its revitalizing and balancing effects on the female sexual system. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, dong quai affects the body's estrogen levels.
Black Cohosh
Native Americans have used the black cohosh root for hundreds of years for treating symptoms of menopause. Black cohosh has been a popular women's herb in Europe since the mid-20th century. The herb helps alleviate hot flashes, mood imbalances, night sweats, anxiety, vaginal dryness and unhealthy sleep patterns.
Vitex
Vitex, or chaste tree berry, helps alleviate menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness and depression. According to David Hoffmann, a professional herbalist and author of "An Elders' Herbal," vitex is the most frequently used menopausal remedy in Great Britain. The herb may balance the body's progesterone levels.
Ginseng
Adrenal supportive herbs are useful for treating menopause because their adrenals supply the body with estrogen after menstruation ends. Supporting the adrenal glands helps balance the body's hormone levels, which may mitigate menopausal symptoms. Herbs that support the adrenal glands' functions include Siberian and American ginsengs. Ginsengs are also considered adaptogens, which means they correct imbalances in the body caused by physical and emotional stress.
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