Menopause occurs later in a woman’s life, usually between 45 and 55 years old. As women age, estrogen levels gradually decline, ovaries stop producing eggs and menstruation eventually stops. However, some women experience postmenopausal bleeding, which can be heavy at times. Some herbal remedies may help to stop the bleeding, although there is little scientific evidence that herbs actually work. Consult your physician before taking an herbal supplement.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh might be helpful for the short-term relief of symptoms associated with menopause, reported the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists in 2001. However, researchers are still conducting studies on the effects of black cohosh and postmenopausal symptoms because results have been inconclusive. Traditional herbalists also use black cohosh for gynecological conditions, including menstrual difficulties and childbirth. Side effects of the herb include stomachaches and headaches.
Shepherd’s Purse
Shepherd’s purse is a weed that originated in the Middle East, but it now grows across the globe. Modern herbalists and naturopaths use the entire plant for various treatments. Shepherd’s purse is dried and infused in a liquid extract or as a tincture. Naturopaths use Shepherd's purse tea to stop all types of hemorrhages, including postmenopausal bleeding. However, there is no scientific research that supports the use of this herbal remedy to control bleeding. Shepherd's purse can cause side effects such as thyroid enlargement, low blood pressure, trouble walking, unusual drowsiness, enlarged pupils and respiratory paralysis.
Wild Yam
Traditionally, naturopaths used wild yam to treat menstrual cramps and difficulties with childbirth. The plant contains a compound that can be chemically converted into the hormone progesterone, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Some herbalists still use wild yam to treat menstrual difficulties, including postmenopausal bleeding, but there is no evidence to suggest it has any effect. Wild yam is a source of phytoestrogen, a plant-based estrogen, which may adversely interact with some hormonal replacement therapies.
Life Root
Life root is an herbal remedy traditionally used in Native American culture to hasten childbirth. Life root grows naturally throughout the United States and the entire plant is used for medicinal purposes. The plant is also included in some herbal supplements designed to control irregular menses. However, the herb contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids and is not considered safe. The plant is toxic and should be taken with extreme care, according to Drugs.com. Pyrrolizidine alkaloids are related to hypertensive pulmonary vascular disease and liver cancer.
References
- PubMed Health: Menopause; September 2010
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Black Cohosh
- Pomona College: Shepherd’s Purse Added to BFS Plant List; Nancy Hamlett; February 2010
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Wild Yam; Steven D. Ehrlich; February 2009
- Drugs.com: Life Root
- Womens-Health-Club; Shepherd's Purse Herb - Uses And Side Effects
