Most everyone broils in the sun, but some sweat in the moonlight -- a condition called night sweats that often causes people to wake up in the midst of slumber with body and bed clothes drenched in perspiration. Causes of night sweats range from menopause, andropause, and eating spicy or heavy foods to drinking alcohol in the evening, side effects of medication, and certain medical conditions. Medication exists to treat night sweats, but you can also go the natural route. However, talk to your doctor before starting any alternative treatment.
Herbal Remedies
Choose plants that cool the body to staunch the tide of night sweats, suggests Dr. Susan Lark, author of "The Menopause Self-Help Book." These include chickweed, elderflower and violet. Natural approaches also involve nourishing and oxygenating the liver with plants such as dong quai, dandelion, yellow dock and black cohosh. Other herbs that may help are motherwort, chasteberry and valerian root. Herbal remedies can cause side effects and negatively interact with medication, so do not start any supplements without consulting a doctor.
Homeopathic Treatments
Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman, a naturopathic physician, treats hot flashes and night sweats with homeopathic remedies, according to an article on the Project Aware website. Homeopathic remedies are rendered according to symptoms, such as lachesis for sweats that radiate from the top of the head and interrupt sleep. Sepia, pulsatilla, valeriana, ferrum metallicum, sulfuricum, sanguinaria and belladonna also address specific aspects of night sweats. These or any treatments should be prescribed by a naturopathic professional. However, bear in mind that the effectiveness of alternative medicines has not been authenticated by the scientific and medical community.
Therapeutic Oils
Essential oils could be a way to ease night sweats. Basil, thyme, rosemary and eucalyptus oils are recommended ones to try. Apply essential oils at bedtime, or sprinkle a few drops in a cool or tepid bath before turning in. The oils can also be added to unscented massage oil and rubbed on the feet. Place a spritzer bottle containing an essential oil diluted with water at your bedside table and lightly mist yourself and the linens before sleep or upon awakening with a night sweat.
Natural Food Supplements
Licorice and licorice root is thought to reduce estrogen and replace progesterone, which could lessen the severity of night sweats, hot flashes and insomnia in menopausal women. However, licorice is a powerful drug and can cause high blood pressure and water retention, so do not take without medical advice. The phytoestrogens in soy may also be helpful, especially in food form, such as tofu, tempeh, soy milk and soy nuts. If your night sweats are caused by acid reflux, carrot or cabbage juice, aloe vera juice, and licorice may provide relief.
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