Menopause is often defined as the end of the reproductive phase in females. Most women experience the onset of menopause between 45 and 50 years old, but it can take place from 40 to 60. Menopause can also be prematurely induced by surgery or illness. Hormone replacement therapy is commonly used to treat symptoms of menopause. For a more natural approach, homeopathic remedies can also provide relief in many cases.
Calcarea Carbonica
Calcarea carbonica is a chemical mineral compound, also known as calcium carbonate, derived from oyster shells. When weight gain and bloating are the most significant of the menopausal symptoms, this may be the best remedy. Women who are chilly and tire easily can also benefit from calcarea carbonica. If menopause results in a feeling of going insane or expecting something bad to happen, this remedy can help alleviate these emotional symptoms. It's also beneficial to reduce the loss of calcium from bones during this time, when osteoporosis is a more significant issue. Dosage is 200C, taken once weekly until symptoms are better. Once this reduction is apparent, dosage can drop to once monthly until symptoms have fully subsided.
Lachesis
According to naturopathic physician Judyth Reichenberg-Ullman, homeopathic remedies are effective as much as 80 percent of the time in menopausal symptom relief. Lachesis is one of her favorite hot flash remedies and one of the most prescribed homeopathic remedies for menopausal symptoms in general. This remedy is indicated if flashes begin at the top of the head and appear alongside headaches and sweating. Other menopausal concerns that may be relieved by Lachesis include insomnia, profuse menstrual bleeding and headaches that tend to pound on the left side of the head. This remedy should be taken once a week at a potency of 200C until symptoms improve; then frequency can be reduced to monthly. When symptoms disappear, the remedy may be stopped.
Sepia
This homeopathic remedy is used for menopausal symptoms, including dry vaginal lining, loss of libido and even a dread or fear of intercourse. The woman who finds this remedy useful is often worn out physically. She regularly feels cold, even though flushing happens frequently. Night sweats and hot flashes can both be addressed by using Sepia. Constipation and incontinence may also be relieved with this remedy. Take 200C weekly until symptoms are reduced, followed by taking the remedy once a month until symptoms abate.
References
- Holistic Online: Alternative Medicine for Menopause
- Project Aware: Remedies for Menopausal Symptoms
- AltMd: Homeopathy for Menopause
- "The Complete Self Care Guide to Homeopathy, Herbal Remedies & Nutritional Supplements"; Ellen Feingold, MD, 2008
