Menopause is the bane of many women, from those experiencing symptoms of early menopause to those who have dealt with symptoms for years. Hot flashes, night sweats, erratic changes in mood, temperament and emotional stability, and the decrease of hormones in the aging female body can wreak havoc on the body as well as the mind. Many women don't want to take prescription drugs to treat menopause symptoms, and often do quite well using natural herbal remedies for relief. Herbal remedies around the world have helped women deal with menopause symptoms for thousands of years.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is an ancient Chinese herb used to help treat and relieve a variety of symptoms related to menopause, including hot flashes. The herb, also known as angelica, contains a variety of ingredients, including vitamin E and iron, and is used as a natural hormone replacement. Dong quai helps to stabilize the contraction and relaxation of blood vessels, relieving cramps and hot flashes.
Black Cohosh
One of the most popular and well-known herbs to help relieve menopause symptoms is black cohosh. Black cohosh, ingested in tea brews or taken as a supplement, has long been known to help relieve not only hot flashes, but heart palpitations, headaches, perspiration (night sweats) and irritability for women around the world, according to HolisticOnline.com. Black cohosh can be taken as a supplement in 2mg doses twice a day or as a tea infusion two to three times a day.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil acts to balance hormones, and also contains enzymes and hormones necessary for cellular function. It can reduce bloating and relieve symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.
Sarsaparilla
Tea made from sarsaparilla has long been used to help fight the lethargy and lack of energy many women feel during menopause. Acting as a stimulant, the herb helps promote the development of estrogen. HolisticOnline.com suggests combining sarsaparilla with Siberian ginseng for optimal benefits and boosts of energy.
Chaste Berry
Chaste berry relieves the severity of hot flashes, and reduces the vertigo or dizziness that many women suffer from during menopause. The herb helps lower estrogen surges, and contains ingredients similar to the mood neurotransmitter dopamine, so it may help to also reduce the severity and frequency of mood swings.
