Hot flashes are uncomfortable episodes associated with menopausal women, while seizures are neurological disorders that may occur to males and females of any age. Herbs have been associated with traditional treatment for both hot flashes and seizures. While some of these associations are supported by medical evidence, scientific support is inconclusive for many claims of herbal treatment for hot flashes and seizures.
Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are one of the uncomfortable physical symptoms frequently associated with menopause. Red clover contains isoflavones and coumestan and is the source of an extract marketed as a prescription supplement to ease menopausal symptoms, according to Drs. Leanne Yanni and Wendy Klein at Virginia Commonwealth University. Red clover may ease menopause symptoms and reduce hot flashes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, but scientific data supporting these propositions is inconclusive. Ground flaxseed and black cohosh may each be effective in treating menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, the University of Maryland Medical Center reports.
Seizures
Seizures are caused by inappropriate electrical signals sent from brain cells. A pattern of repeated seizures is referred to as epilepsy. Seizure disorders can be very dangerous and require prompt medical attention. The herbs valerian, chamomile, passionflower and bacopa have been used in traditional medicine to treat seizure disorders, but scientific evidence of their efficacy is lacking, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Other herbs, including borage and ginkgo, may worsen an epileptic condition, while St. John's wort and white willow may interfere with anti-seizure medications.
Seizures With Hot Flashes
The hormonal changes of menopause may alter or exacerbate seizures in women who suffer from epilepsy, according to the Epilepsy Foundation. Some prescription seizure medications are now being explored for their positive impact on menopause-related hot flashes, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. The herb kava is associated with relief from anxiety and depression related to menopause, according to Dr. Tori Hudson, although it is not specifically associated with hot flash alleviation. Kava is also used in traditional medicine as a sedative for the prevention of seizures, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Considerations and Warnings
Natural products like herbs can still have serious side effects, according to MayoClinic.com. Black cohosh and kava, two herbs often touted for alternative treatment of menopausal symptoms, can cause liver damage, while dong quai, also touted for relieving hot flashes, may cause excessive bleeding. Hot flashes and seizures may both be signs of a serious health condition, and herbal treatments may interfere with the function of necessary prescription medications. Always consult your physician before beginning treatment with herbal supplements for hot flashes, seizures or other health conditions, especially if you are taking medication.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Hot Flashes
- University of Rochester Medical Center; Common Seizure Medication May Put Chill on Hot Flashes; August 2000
- Epilepsy Foundation; Ask the Expert: Hormones and Menopause; Andrew G. Herzog, M.D.; August 2003
- Dr. Tori Hudson, ND; Lesser Known Botanicals for Menopause Symptoms; July 2007
- Virginia Commonwealth University "Women's Health in Primary Care"; Alternatives to Traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy; Leanne Yanni, M.D., et al.; July 2000
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Flaxseed
