Before you begin a regimen of estrogen therapy for your menopausal symptoms, try herbal supplements. Evidence exists that certain supplements can minimize or eliminate symptoms such as fatigue, mood swings, energy loss and hot flashes. However, not all of the many herbs on the supplement market have proven their effectiveness and safety. Three supplements in particular, have established their use in treating menopausal symptoms. Check with your doctor before using herbs for your menopausal symptoms.
Black Cohosh
This plant comes from the same family as the buttercup, the larkspur and the peony. Black cohosh also goes by the names squareroot and snakeroot. Historically, black cohosh's uses have included female hormonal problems associated with menopause, premenstrual syndrome and menstrual cramps. According to "The New Healing Herbs," black cohosh can improve mood and fatigue associated with menopause and less the duration of hot flashes. You can find this plant extract in commercial preparations, or you can prepare it at home. Boil the powdered root in water for 30 minutes and cool it. Sip tablespoons at a time until you've consumed 1 cup. Adding lemon or honey will offset the bitter taste. Consult your physician before trying black cohosh.
Red Clover
The red clover plant can act as a deterrent to rabbits that invade your garden, when planted along its perimeter. They prefer it over other vegetables and herbs. Red clover comes from the same family as beans and peas. "The New Healing Herbs" says that red clover alleviates hot flashes, fatigue and mood swings in menopausal women and helps prevent heart disease. Women have natural protection against heart disease due to their high levels of estrogen. However, they lose this protection when the production of estrogen stops as a result of menopause. Consult your physician before trying red clover, because in large quantities it can cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal upset. Your physician will recommend a safe dose for you.
Soybeans
The soybean is the only plant food that contains the same complete protein found in animal meat. Soybeans provide protein, iron, fiber and other nutrients. Soy has plant estrogens that can act as an estrogen replacement in menopausal women. Considered one of the best treatments for hot flashes, soybeans reduce other menopausal symptoms, such as fatigue and mood swings, according to "The New Healing Herbs." Known for their versatility, soybeans come in such forms as tofu and tempeh. You can also snack on them in their raw form. Consult your physician before using soybeans to treat symptoms of menopause.
Safety
Black cohosh and red clover are generally considered safe by the FDA, but herbs do not receive the extensive testing and controls that vitamin and mineral supplements do. Soy products meet the strict criteria of other foods and do not have maximum amounts placed on their usage. Even though the safety of soy is well-established, allergies can occur. As with any supplement, consult your physician before trying them out. Your age, size and medical condition will determine the upper limits of these supplements for you.
References
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2001
- PubMed: Botanical and Dietary Supplements for Menopausal Symptoms: What Works, What Does Not
- Health Castle: Fighting Menopause Symptoms With Supplements
