Ayurveda, India's traditional medical system, theorizes that three main energies influence your physical, mental and spiritual well being. To be healthy in Ayurveda means the three doshas, or energies, are balanced. These doshas are vata, pitta and kapha. You probably have one prevailing dosha, as do most people. Traditionally, recommendations for Ayurvedic menopausal herbal remedies are individualized and take your particular dosha into account. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal remedies for any health condition.
Menopause and the Three Doshas
If air/wind or "vata" dosha dominates during menopause, you may experience anxiety, sleeplessness, anxiousness and poor circulation, according to the Woman to Woman Clinic's website. Ayurvedic herbs to soothe a vata-type menopause can include astragalus, aloe vera, ashwagandha, licorice and Asian ginseng. If your menopause is marked by fire/water or "pitta" energies, including hot flashes and anger, aloe vera, gotu kola, barberry bark and motherwort can be cooling and refreshing. Water/earth or "kapha" dosha often manifests as weight gain, lethargy and bloating. Cayenne, cinnamon and motherwort can alleviate these symptoms. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before adding herbs to your regimen.
Shatavari
Shatavari root, which is part of the asparagus family, is an excellent general tonic for female hormone balance. It also cleanses the blood and nourishes the uterus and ovaries. According to David Frawley, author of "The Yoga of Herbs: An Ayurvedic Guide to Herbal Medicine," Ayurveda considers shatavari beneficial for circulation, digestion and the reproduction system. This herb is also an immune stimulant, and contains heath-giving phytochemicals, such as shatavarins and saponins. If you are debilitated, shatavari can restore energy and calm. Usually shatavari is taken as a decoction prepared with water or milk. Please discuss all medical and nutrition questions with your healthcare provider.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent, tonic and cooling plant, according to Frawley. The usual dosage is two teaspoons of aloe vera gel along with a bit of turmeric powder taken three times daily. Mixing aloe vera and shatavari produces a nutritious general tonic. It soothes the uterus and normalizes metabolism of sugar. Aloe vera is an emmenagogue, a substance that can induce regular menstruation. Avoid using this plant internally if you are pregnant or have uterine bleeding, Crohn's disease or irritated hemorrhoids. Use aloe vera οnly under the supervision οf a doctor.
Ashwagandha
Another popular tonic herb, ashwagandha root can combat common menopausal symptoms, including mood swings and irregular sleep cycles. According to a 2000 study published in "Phytomedicine," the herb demonstrated anti-anxiety and anti-depressive qualities. The Chopra Center notes that over 200 research studies have examined ashwagandha, and it has been shown to reduce stress, improve immune response and improve cognitive abilities. In addition, it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, according to the Chopra Center. Ask your physician which herbal remedies are appropriate for you
References
- "Phytomedicine"; Anxiolytic-antidepressant Activity of Withania Somnifera Glycowithanolides: An Experimental Study; S.K. Bhattacharya: December 2000
- The Chopra Center: Ashwagandha
- "The Yoga of Herbs: An Ayurvedic Guide to Herbal Medicine"; David Frawley, et al.; 1986
- Woman to Woman Clinic; Ayurvedic Treatment for Menopause; Jessica Wyman; February 2011
