Can an Herbal Remedy For Menopause Offer Natural Symptom Relief?

Are you suffering from symptoms of menopause, but concerned about the risks associated with some common Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) drugs? If you’re undecided about HRT or simply prefer a more natural approach, consider taking an herbal remedy that provides safe, effective relief from discomforting symptoms.

The reason an herbal remedy for menopause may work so well is the presence of hormone-like substances in many plant compounds. These help balance and regulate levels of hormones, which in turn can alleviate hot flashes, headaches, irritability, and sleep difficulties among other menopausal symptoms.

• Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa, also known as Squaw Root): Black Cohosh has been studied extensively and results indicate that is may relieve hot flashes. The safety of prolonged usage has not been determined, so it should not be taken for longer than a six month period. Avoid taking Black Cohosh if you are undergoing HRT treatments. Headaches are reported as a side effect of use.


• Dong Quai: Don Quai is a Chinese tonic herb that is commonly used to regulate female hormones, alleviate PMS symptoms, and provide relief from the symptoms of menopause. It is believed Don Quai is an effective herbal remedy for menopause due to anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant properties. It may also contain substances similar to progesterone. Don Quai should no be taken in conjunction with any blood thinning agents.


• Ginseng (root of Araliaceous plant): Ginseng is another ancient Oriental tonic herb that may be effective in relieving hot flashes, fatigue, and mood swings or depression. It also may promote more regular sleep patterns during menopause. The hormonal properties of Ginseng are similar to those of estrogen, so vaginal dryness may be relieved, as well. Ginseng should not be taken in conjunction with estrogen. It is important to secure a quality brand of the herb that is free of contaminants and in fact contains genuine Ginseng, and to avoid exceeding the recommended daily dosage.


• Kava Kava (root of Piper methysticum plant): Kava Kava is an evergreen shrub native to the South Pacific. Its active ingredient is davalactone – a chemical which acts as a mild depressant on the central nervous system. Many women report that as an herbal remedy for menopause, it alleviates hot flashes and provides relief from mood swings, anxiety, and depression. Prolonged usage of Kava Kava – particularly at high dosages - may result in the onset of Kava Dermopathy, a skin condition characterized by the eruption of a scaly rash. Due to possible liver damaging affects, its use should be limited to four weeks.

If you have any questions about trying an herbal remedy for menopause symptom relief, consult with you doctor. Be sure to consult with him or her if you are already taking prescription drugs for menopausal symptoms. Taken responsibly and conscientiously, herbal remedies may just be the natural solution you’ve been looking for.