Menopause, or the cessation of the menstrual cycle, typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. At menopause, the ovaries produce less of the female hormone estrogen. During this period of hormonal change, women may experience some break-through bleeding for a time, as well as other symptoms such as fatigue, memory loss and weight gain. Hot flashes are among the most common complaints of perimenopausal women. There are a few herbal remedies, however, that can help balance hormones and relieve many of these symptoms.
American Ginseng
American ginseng and Panax ginseng have similar properties. Herbalists refer to them as adaptogens, meaning they help the body deal with stress and change. American ginseng traditionally was used to treat headaches, fever and infertility. Ginseng stimulates circulation and energizes the body. Clayton College of Natural Health (CCNH) also points out that it often is used as an aphrodisiac. Ginseng for perimenopausal women may help address the fatigue, headache and general stress associated with going through menopause. The recommended dose is 100 to 200 mg, one to three times per day.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is considered a female herb. It is used specifically by herbalists to relieve symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, irritability, mood swings and sleep disturbances. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMM) notes that clinical studies have found black cohosh effective in improving menopausal symptoms. It is used widely throughout Europe to treat both premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause. The recommended dose is 40 to 80 mg per day.
Damiana
Damiana has been used traditionally to balance hormone levels in both men and women. According to Clayton College of Natural Health, it "increases sexual prowess." Herbalists use damiana to treat hormone imbalances, hot flashes, menopause and Parkinson's disease and as a sexual stimulant. It can be found in liquid extract or capsule form.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is an Asian herb used in traditional Chinese medicine. It sometimes is called the female ginseng. Herbalists recommend dong quai for a variety of feminine issues, including reproductive problems, cramps, PMS and menopausal symptoms. The CCNH Herb Guide explains that dong quai helps dissolve blood clots and remove morbid matter from the body. It also increases circulation, especially to the pelvic area and is useful in treating menstrual irregularities, hot flashes and lack of energy. It is nourishing for the nervous system and can help calm nerves and relieve anxiety. During perimenopause, 500 to 600 mg capsules may be taken up to six times daily.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil comes from a wildflower native to North America. UMM notes that it is high in the essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). It is a versatile plant used by herbalists to treat anything from allergies and eczema to PMS and breast pain. Essential fatty acids, such as those found in evening primrose, are important for overall health and immunity. The GLA and prostaglandins in evening primrose oil also may help relieve menopausal symptoms such as mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness and hot flashes.
