Hot flashes are sudden sensations of warmth in the upper body and face, frequently accompanied by a flushing of the skin, mild perspiration and rapid heartbeats, according to the Mayo Clinic. This feeling of heat is typically associated with menopause, but women can also suffer a hot flash as a result of conditions or medications that affect estrogen levels in the body. Estrogen can affect the function of the hypothalamus, which is the portion of the brain responsible for body temperature. Though hormone therapy is one method of treating hot flashes, more natural remedies can help to lessen the intensity of this symptom.
Avoiding Tobacco
One of the easiest methods of naturally treating hot flashes is avoiding the use of tobacco product. Smoking tobacco is actually "linked to increased hot flashes," advises the Mayo Clinic. If a woman is going through menopause, she should try to quit smoking cigarettes.
Changing Diet
Another effective method of naturally treating hot flashes is a change in diet. The Cleveland Clinic says diet can help to naturally manage hot flashes. For some women, these sudden sensations of heat are triggered by certain foods or beverages. To help prevent hot flashes, women should avoid consuming spicy foods, caffeinated drinks and alcohol, especially during menopause.
Exercise
Increasing the level of fitness can often help prevent hot flashes, the Cleveland Clinic says. Any type of exercise is beneficial, so it's best for women to choose an activity they enjoy.
Managing Body Temperature
The Mayo Clinic says that an "increase in the body's core temperature can trigger hot flashes." This means women should pay close attention to how they dress, as well as the temperature of their environment, to better control hot flashes. Dressing in layers, avoiding tight clothing, running a fan, opening a window and keeping rooms cool are a few ways to use this method. Even drinking cold water at the onset of a hot flash can reduce the temperature of the body's core.
Deep Breathing and Relaxation
The Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic agree that deep breathing can naturally treat hot flashes. Deep breathing is basically abdominal breathing. Inhalations are taken in slowly by pushing out the stomach muscles, and then the breath is gradually exhaled by pulling in the stomach muscles. Both clinics recommend performing 15 minutes of deep breathing in the morning and in the evening. Yoga and medication can teach proper breathing techniques as well as help with relaxation.
St. John's Wort
According to the National Institutes of Health, the number of hot flashes can decrease by 50 percent in approximately eight weeks from regular use of St. John's wort. A study conducted by Centre de Recherche of Quebec, Canada found that 900mg of St. John's wort given three times a day provided good results.
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