If you prefer not using hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, for menopausal symptoms, test out various foods and herbs that act on the body like the hormones, estrogen and progesterone. These all natural and plant-based substances are called phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens help relieve a variety of symptoms associated with menopause, and most are easily available at grocery and health food stores. Consult your health practitioner if you are trying to get off HRT or want to use phytoestrogens as a substitute.
Saffron
The rare Indian spice saffron is used by Ayurvedic practitioners to treat symptoms of menopause including irritability, anger, depression, anxiety, mood swings and other emotional conditions resulting from shifting hormonal levels, notes AltMD. Ayurveda deals with creating balance and harmony. Treatment corrects systemic imbalances through herbal treatment, diet, fasting and adjustments in the individual's lifestyle. Saffron is available from culinary outlets as well as herbal apothecaries. Because there is no recommended dose, consult an Ayurvedic practitioner for guidelines for use and dosage.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh provides many of the same effects on menopausal symptoms as HRT, but without some of the potential dangers of hormone therapy, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The estrogen-like herb is useful for relieving emotional and mental symptoms like anger, irritability, depression and moodiness. Additionally, it may be helpful in reducing vaginal dryness and preventing insomnia. There is no recommended dose for black cohosh. Because it can produce side effects, it should not be used unless under the supervision of a health practitioner familiar with its properties.
Wild Yam
Wild yam is a plant-based hormone substitute that is often used in place of progesterone, according to author Rosemary Gladstar in her book titled, "Herbal Healing for Women." It is sometimes administered to woman as they are approaching menopause to help replace lower progesterone levels and balance estrogen dominance. Wild yam is also a component of bio-identical pharmaceutical progesterone creams. These are made in compounding pharmacies and prescribed to help some women suffering from depression. These creams can produce significant side effects such as extreme mood changes, severe depression and even suicidal thoughts. If you use a prepared progesterone cream and think your moods are getting more extreme, stop using it and call you gynecologist immediately.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed and its oil is high in omega-3 fatty acids and also in phytoestrogens, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. They contain substances called lignans and isoflavones, both reputed for being able to offer relief for menopausal hot flashes as well we other symptoms related to both menopause and menstruation, according to the "Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition." Omega-3 fatty acids act much like estrogen does by protecting the heart and circulatory system, adds UMMC. Flaxseed and flaxseed oil should not be heated, as they lose their vital nutrients. Grind flaxseed immediately before using and sprinkle on cereals, salads and in smoothies.
References
- "Ayurvedic Medicine: The Principles of Traditional Practice"; Sebastian Pole; 2006
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Menopause
- "Herbal Healing for Women" ; Rosemary Gladstar; 1993
- Women to Women: Ayurveda and Menopause
- AltMD: Nurturing the Female Goddess Through Ayurveda
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Black Cohosh
