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5 Best Herbal Treatments of Menopause that Works Effectively

By: Red Hot Mamas

Published: September 11, 2015

Contributed by Daisy Grace-  Guest Writer/ Health & Beauty Consultant

Overview

Hormonal changes that occur during menopause trigger a number of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, weight gain, loss of energy and psychological problems among others. While hormonal replacement therapy may be effective in curbing menopausal symptoms, the American Heart Association warns that they can put a woman at an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other illnesses. Luckily, there are some herbal treatments that have been shown to be effective in alleviating menopausal symptoms without putting you at an increased risk of other health problems. Here are 5 best herbal treatments of menopause that works effectively:
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is effective in preventing symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes experienced by women during menopause. This herbal treatment is derived from a species of buttercup. Several studies have shown that black cohosh can help alleviate mild hot flashes and night sweats for a short time though some researches tend to differ. This herb has also been shown to help lower blood pressure, and in rare cases, hepatitis.
Soy
Soy can also help in addressing menopausal symptoms like night sweats and hot flashes. Soy is loaded with isoflavones, types of phytoestrogens (plant estrogen) that can help in maintenance of estrogen levels during menopause. Various studies have shown that soy can be effective in lowering menopausal symptoms. Nevertheless, other studies have refuted these claims, indicating that soy cannot address symptoms experienced during menopause. Health professionals recommend soy consumption in the form of food like soy milk or tofu but cautions against taking soy tablets or powders.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseed oil or in ground form can help in treating menopausal symptoms like hot flashes. They contain omega-3 fatty acids along with lignans, which are equivalent to phytoestrogens. Though several studies have shown mixed results, flaxseeds can be helpful in some women. Other studies have shown that flaxseeds can also help in lowering “bad” cholesterol levels. This has made them a major recipe in modern diets designed for weight loss. Since flaxseeds are hard to digest, they should be consumed in ground forms or use their oil in your meals.
Red Clover
Red clover is increasingly becoming popular as one of the most effective natural treatment for hot flashes, night sweats and overall intensity of menopausal symptoms. The plant grows in Europe, Asia and Africa. In a recent study, 72 healthy postmenopausal women who took red clover supplements reported lesser menopausal symptoms. Red clover contains isoflavones (phytoestrogens) that tries to balance hormonal changes that occur during menopause.
Lentils
Lentils contain isoflavones that have been shown to function as estrogen. Various studies have demonstrated that isoflavones from lentils significantly reduces menopause symptoms. However, Dr. Jane Johnston, a GP and specialist in women’s health at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, says that you should stick with natural herbal remedies for at least two months to give them a chance to work.
Conclusion
While more researches are still required to establish the effectiveness of herbal treatment of menopause symptoms, most studies have found that they are more beneficial than placebos. The best way to ensure that that herbal treatments work for you is to get them from well-trained natural therapists or reputable stores. Herbal treatments can interfere with prescribed medications and therefore should be used with your doctor’s consent. Also, some can put you at an increased risk of heart disease if you have a family history of the condition. Apart from using herbal supplements, engaging in regular exercises and eating a healthy diet can help in the fight against menopausal symptoms.
References:
Author Bio:
Daisy Grace is a Health & Beauty Consultant. She enjoys writing on different topics related to women’s health issues. She is a long-time native from Oklahoma, USA and work as a content coordinator for ConsumerHealthDigest.com. She is being also exploring new things related to skin hyperpigmentation. Daisy’s purpose and passion lies in facilitating health breakthroughs with women who deserve good health, happiness and self-love. Join Daisy on Google +, Twitter & LinkedIn