Herbal Remedies for Menopause relief

Menopause is experienced by many women as a time of radical changes in her body. Though not all women experience it in the same way there are a few things that are common in most women. For example, menopause and the consequential loss of hormones that come with it is a time when hot flashes become more common. In addition, there may be vaginal dryness and irritability. Women who don’t want to use hormone replacement therapy, or women who want to supplement it often try herbal remedies to address some of the symptoms they experience. For example, soy products are reputed to combat night sweats and hot flashes. Soy may work on these menopause symptoms because they contain phytoestrogens. Phytoestrogens react similarly in the body to naturally occurring estrogen. They bind to estrogen receptors, for instance.
Soy and other beans may help protect bones and have some beneficial action on cholesterol. Other herbal remedies for menopause include Black Cohosh, Dong Quai, evening primrose and Chaste berry. These herbs have not been studied extensively by western science. Many of them are also powerful and care should be exercised when using them. It is always a good idea to consult with a doctor when using herbal remedies for menopause, in particular if a woman is using any other medications as there may be a reaction.

Dong Quai is used extensively in Chinese medicine to soothe and alleviate menopause symptoms. It is used to treat symptoms such as hot flashes as is Black Cohosh. Black Cohosh has been used in western herbal tradition for centuries as well. It is reportedly mild and effective for treating symptoms that result from the loss of estrogen. For example, black Cohosh reportedly stops cramping and pain. Another herb that has been used a lot to treat menopause is Saint John’s Wort. In particular this herb has been indicated to treat the depression and moodiness associated with the change of life.

Women have also used Evening primrose for bladder problems, and breast pain associated with menopause. Other herbal remedies for menopause that are used widely include Valerian root and Wild and Mexican yam. For sexual symptoms Damiana may provide some relief. It is important to note that prolonged use may cause urinary tract infection and irritation. Dandelion is supportive of liver functions according to tradition and may also help balance hormones.

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