What Natural Supplements To Take For Menopause And Fatigue

Menopause is the end of your menstruation and your ability to bear a child. MayoClinic.com states that menopause begins 12 months after your final period. Menopause, which is a natural process in your body, may cause certain symptoms in some women, including sleeping problems, reduced energy, and feelings of sadness or loss. Natural supplements may help treat your menopause-related fatigue, but you should always check with your health care practitioner before using these powerful natural substances.

Menopause and Fatigue

Although some women do not have any symptoms once their periods end, most women experience some symptoms associated with menopause. According to FamilyDoctor.org, common signs and symptoms associated with menopause include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, urinary tract problems, weight gain, headaches, night sweats, problems sleeping and fatigue. Your menopause-related fatigue may be caused by hot flashes and night sweats that prevent you from restful and uninterrupted sleep.

Natural Supplements

Many natural supplements have traditionally been used in treating menopausal symptoms. Examples of helpful natural supplements for this health purpose include black cohosh, blue cohosh, cactus, chaste tree, damiana and shatavari, states expert herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual." Other natural supplements that may be helpful include essential fatty acids, DHEA, and calcium and magnesium. Some of these natural supplements may require further scientific testing to support their use for this health purpose.

Supplement in Focus

Shatavari is a natural supplement that is often used in treating menopause and fatigue. Shatavari, notes Smith, has long been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine as a tonic and remedy for female reproductive health. Shatavari is often used as a general tonic during menopause, and it may also be helpful in treating decreased female libido, reduced fertility, poor lactation, premenstrual syndrome, menstrual cramping, dyspepsia, reduced appetite and liver problems. Extracts from the dried root are used in natural supplements.

Considerations

Fatigue is just one of many symptoms that may accompany menopause. If you are suffering from menopausal symptoms, schedule a visit with your health care practitioner to discuss the merits and drawbacks of natural treatment methods for this health issue, including dietary supplements. A knowledgeable health care provider can tell you what supplements might be best for you and your specific health problem. Some supplements should be avoided if you have certain medical conditions or allergies.