Vaginal dryness is a common complaint among women going through menopause. According to MayoClinic.com, vaginal dryness is an indicator of inflammation and thinning of the vaginal walls caused by a decrease in estrogen production. Vaginal dryness can lead to uncomfortable sexual intercourse from the lack of sufficient lubrication. Estrogen treatments in the form of creams and tablets may help increase vaginal fluids. Additionally, herbs such as black cohosh may also help with vaginal dryness. Speak with your doctor before using herbs to treat any type of health condition.
Causes
The main cause of vaginal dryness is reduced estrogen levels. Many factors aside from menopause may lead to a decrease of this hormone. For example, childbirth, breast-feeding, smoking cigarettes and certain immune disorders can all lead to reduced estrogen production. Women undergoing radiation therapy, hormone treatments or chemotherapy may also have decreased estrogen levels.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is a perennial plant native to North America and a member of the buttercup family. Herbal preparations made from its roots and underground stems are commonly used to treat symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances and mood swings. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, black cohosh contains plant-based estrogens known as phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens have been found to mimic estrogen; however, phytoestrogens are not as potent physiologically as human estrogen.
Uses
Black cohosh is available in the form of tinctures, capsules, tablets and extracts. According to MayoClinic.com, there is no proven effective dosage of black cohosh, but they report that The British Herbal Compendium suggests taking 40 to 200 mg of dried black cohosh root daily in divided doses to ease symptoms of vaginal dryness and other menopause symptoms. Make a tea by adding 20 g of dried herb to 32 oz. of water and boiling for 30 minutes.
Warnings
High doses of black cohosh may lead to certain side effects, such as dizziness, diarrhea, joint pain, nausea, headaches, slow heart rate, weight gain and vomiting. Always consult your doctor before using herbs as an alternative remedy. Women who may be pregnant or breastfeeding should not use herbs, as they may affect the fetus or nursing baby. Herbs should not be given to children unless otherwise directed by a physician.
