Herbal remedies to treat menopause

Once ominously referred to as "the change," menopause is simply your body’s adjustment to a downshift in hormones. Because of recent concerns about HRT, now may be the time to consider natural options such as soy foods, herbs and exercise. The following guidelines will tell you more.

There’s no doubt that the drop in female hormones during meno­pause profoundly affects your body, but don't make the mistake of thinking of menopause as a "disease." Menopause may actually bring about a feeling of freedom — namely, freedom from menstruation and concerns about contraception.

Still, for many women menopause can be decidedly uncomfortable, and it can carry with it the potential for future health problems.In addition to getting plenty of calcium in your diet, it’s also important to get enough vitamin E, vitamin D and magnesium. These can be taken in supplement form to boost the amount you get from foods.

• Vitamin E stimulates the body’s estrogen production, and as one of the antioxidant vitamins (along with the carotenes and vitamin C), it acts to prevent LDL ("bad") cholesterol from causing plaque to form in your artery walls.
• Magnesium and vitamin D help to prevent osteoporosis and are often combined with calcium in a "bone-building" supplement.

Some women have found success with acupuncture, an ancient Chinese technique in which thin needles are inserted at key points on the body to relieve headaches, sleep disturbances and other menopausal symptoms.

If you favour a natural approach to the menopausal symptoms, consider these popular herbal remedies.

• Black cohosh. This buttercup relative has long been used for hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Its properties resemble estrogen, and studies are needed to confirm its long-term safety and effectiveness. Until then, experts suggest only short-term use, no more than six months at a time.
• Siberian ginseng. Used for centuries in China, this all-purpose herb helps relieve stress, boost mood, enhance immunity and increase mental alertness. It may also alter hormone levels and reduce menopausal symptoms.
• Dong quai. Often referred to as the "female ginseng," this herb seems to have a balancing effect on the female hormone system. It’s best taken in combination with herbs such as black cohosh and Siberian ginseng. Studies are inconclusive as to whether it works on its own.
• Red clover. Available in a menopause-targeted formula called Promensil, red clover contains isoflavones, powerful phytoestrogens. In a study at Tufts University, menopausal patients reported that Pro­mensil cut hot flashes by half. Two other studies, however, revealed no benefits.
• Menopausal formulas. There are a number of "women’s formulas" for menopause that feature various herbs, including black cohosh and dong quai. The amount of each herb may be so low, however, that it pays to take them separately. And remember that such a combination product is an alternative to, not an addition to, using black cohosh or other "female" herbs.

While Health Canada has begun a new regulatory framework for natural health products, including herbs, vitamins, minerals and other die­tary supplements, it is still best to talk with your doctor first.