Menopause is a condition that occurs naturally in women at or about the age of 51. The definitive sign of menopause is the cessation of periods for one full year. However, in menopause, and in peri-menopause, the preceding four to five years before menopause, women often experience hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irregular periods and/or excessive bleeding, insomnia, protruding abdomen and vaginal dryness. Treatments for menopause are generally aimed at comfort measures, and sometimes even include home remedies such as the herb goldenseal.
Uses for Goldenseal
Though the risks and benefits of treating symptoms of menopause with goldenseal are under research, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, goldenseal has been found to have "anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, astringent and laxative properties." With active ingredients hydrastine, berberine and canadine, goldenseal has reportedly been used to treat anorexia, cancer, cirrhosis of the liver, colitis, the common cold, edema, conjunctivitis, diabetes, fever, infection and menorrhagia, which is excessive vaginal bleeding associated with peri-menopause.
Complications of Goldenseal
Though goldenseal has been found to help many conditions, it is not without significant risk. One example is in the case of menorrhagia. Excessive bleeding, even when due to peri-menopausal reasons, requires medical attention and may be complicated or worsened by herbal treatments. Treating such a condition with herbal home remedies, without the supervision of a doctor, is not recommended, and may have serious repercussions because medical treatment may be delayed and surgery may be required.
Precautions and Medication Interactions
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, goldenseal, also called eye balm, green raspberry, and Indian paint, is not to be used in treating pregnant or nursing women, people with high blood pressure, liver disease or heart disease. It has been known to alter liver metabolism, decrease the effectiveness of the antibiotic tetracycline, and interfere with anticoagulants Warfarin and aspirin. It is also noteworthy that goldenseal may irritate skin, mouth, throat and vaginal areas, a significant cause for concern in menopausal use.
Preventive Care for Menopause
While looking at home remedies such as goldenseal, it is also important to be aware of the preventive care vital to decreasing complications associated with menopause and peri-menopause. First, cessation of smoking is recommended. Second, calcium supplements are helpful in prevention of osteoporosis and bone fractures that can come with age. Also, regular exercise is recommended for overall strengthening, toning and cardiovascular health as well as a healthy, balanced diet. In the event that uncomfortable menopausal symptoms persist, it may be helpful to consider hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Safety and Efficacy of Goldenseal
Though goldenseal is readily available over-the-counter in teas, extracts, tablet and capsule forms, the risks and benefits of this powerful supplement are still being evaluated for safety and efficacy. Particularly of concern with using herbal supplements like goldenseal is that its use may delay patients from getting the medical attention they need.
