Estrogen found in the plant kingdom are also known as phytoestrogens. These are polyphenol compounds that exhibit a structural similarity to human estradiol. You can find polyphenol compounds in fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and the three main classes of polyphenol compounds are isoflavones, coumestans and lignans. According to the "Herbal Menopause Book: Herbs, Nutrition and Other Natural Therapies," the six herbs that bind the most to the estrogen receptor are soy, licorice, red clover, thyme, turmeric and verbena. Additionally, several natural health supplements have estrogen-like properties. Speak with a medical professional prior to taking any herbal supplement.
Dong Quai
Dong quai, otherwise known as angelica sinensis, is an herb used to treat hot flashes, sudden feelings of intense warmth that begins in the neck, face or chest. Other symptoms of hot flashes include profuse sweating, anxiety and palpitations. Dong quai also can help treat amenorrhea, irregular menstrual cycles, symptoms associated with menopause and premenstrual syndrom. Do not take dong quai if you are at risk of developing hormone-related cancers such as breast, ovarian and uterine cancer because of the estrogen-like effects of this herbal supplement.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh, otherwise known as actaea racemosa or cimicifuga racemosa, contain triterpenoids, isoflavones and aglycones as active components. According to ""The ACP Handbook of Women's Health," this natural supplement at a dose of 40 mg per day can reduce physical and psychological menopausal symptoms and reduce cramps associated with premenstrual syndrome. Black cohosh functions by suppressing the luteinizing hormone in the pituitary gland. Additionally, black cohosh can reduce the symptoms of anxiety, tension and depression in women with PMS.
Red Clover
Red clover can treat some of the conditions associated with menopause including hot flushes, cardiovascular health, and osteoporosis. Additionally, red clover can treat some of the symptoms associated with PMS and benign prostate hyperplasia. According to "The Natural Menopause Handbook: Herbs, Nutrition, and Other Natural Therapies," the recommended dosage of red clover is 40 mg to 80 mg per day. Do not take red clover if you currently take the drug warfarin or antivirals used to treat human immunodeficiency virus.
Motherwort
Motherwort, otherwise known as leonurus cardiac, is a phytoestrogen that can help relieve some of the symptoms of hot flashes, menstrual disorders and palpitations. Additionally, motherwort has anti-inflammatory, antispasmotic, analgesic and anti-anxiety properties. Further, natural doctors recommend the use of motherwort during labor because this phytoestrogen can have a relaxing effect on the laboring woman's mood and can help stimulate the uterus.
References
- "Conn's Current Therapy 2011: Expert Consult - Online and Print"; Edward T. Bope MD, Rick D. Kellerman and Robert E. Rakel MD; 2010
- "The Herbal Menopause Book: Herbs, Nutrition and Other Natural Therapies"; Amanda M. Crawford; 1996
- "The Natural Menopause Handbook: Herbs, Nutrition, & Other Natural Therapies"; Amanda McQuade Crawford; 2009
- "Integrative Medicine"; David Rakel; 2002
- "The ACP Handbook of Women's Health"; By Rose S. Fife et al; 2009
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