Herbs & Vitamins To Help With Hot Flashes & Night Sweats

Hot flashes and night sweats are very common in men and women. The most common cause of night sweats and hot flashes is menopause, but there can be other causes, such as infections, cancer and certain medications. Nearly one-third of the population suffer from night sweats and hot flashes. Thankfully, there are many ways to control them, including exercise, stress-release techniques, and natural vitamins and herbs.

Vitamin E

The most common vitamin used to control hot flashes and night sweats is vitamin E. A study published in 2007 in the journal "Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation" found that vitamin E is a safe and effective way to decrease hot flashes. If hot flashes are severe, health care providers will suggest between 600 and 800 international units per daily. After you have them under control, drop down to 400 IUs. A vitamin E regimen can take two to six weeks until you start feeling results. If you are diabetic or have high blood pressure, it is important for your doctor to monitor your regimen.

Soy

In countries where soy is a regular part of the diet, fewer incidences of hot flashes occur. Soy contains isoflavones, which are estrogen-like compounds, and rich sources come from soy nuts, tempeh, tofu and soy milk. Dr. Christiane Northrup, women's health specialist, reports that women who consumed at least 60 g of soy daily for 12 weeks decreased hot flashes by 45 percent. However, according to MayoClinic.com, studies show that women showed no change in symptoms after consuming soy.

Black Cohosh

Also known as Actaea racemosa and Cimicifuga racemosa, black cohosh is an herbal supplement from the buttercup family. It is also known as black snakeroot, bugwort, rattleroot, rattleweed and macrotys. This herb comes as tablets, powder and liquid drops. Although the Office of Dietary Supplements notes that studies have shown improvements in symptoms, scholarly research has been conflicting on the benefits of the herb. Black cohosh should not be taken for more than six months. Rare side effects include stomach pain, headaches and liver damage.

Other Vitamins

Hot flashes and night sweats deplete your body of B vitamins, magnesium and potassium, according to the women's menopause support website Power-Surge.com. Replenishing your body with these nutrients can aid in keeping your body balanced. Maintaining this balance will assist in lowering your stress, decreasing anxiety and sleeping soundly, which aid in decreasing hot flashes and night sweats.