Natural Herb Remedies for Menopause Symptoms

The term 'menopause' literally means the last menstrual period. Menopause is a normal event in life, defined by hormonal changes. It typically occurs in 'mid-life', between the late 40s and early 50s. Rather than the beginning of old age, as it is sometimes presented, menopause is the beginning of a new phase in a woman's life. Menopause can cause many uncomfortable symptoms for women. As an alternative to hormone replacement therapy, which has been noted to have major risks to certain individuals, you might want to consider natural herbs. Although it is always important to consult with your doctor before attempting any new remedies. Natural herbs have been known to interact with certain prescriptions so talk with your doctor about these alternatives.

Symptoms Of Menopause

Hot flushes and night sweats

Menstrual Irregularities-Many peri-menopause women will have changes to their menstrual cycle. Some women will experience very irregular periods that stop and start with no pattern. It is also common for women to get heavier, lighter or longer periods at this time. Women experiencing irregularities should consult their doctor in order to ensure the irregularities are menopause related and not a genealogical problem (cancer etc.).
Suggested Herbs: None

Sleep disturbances

Genital changes

Joint/muscle aches and pain - Peri-menopausal women may have morning stiffness and joint pains in the hands, knees, hips, lower back and shoulders. The drop in estrogen may be a contributing factor but the reasons for why this increases joint/muscle aches and pain are unclear.
Suggested Herbs: Red Clover, Korean & Chinese Ginseng, Gotu Kola, Bilberry, Gingko Biloba, Basil,Milk Thistle, Chamomile, St. John's Wort, Damiana, Basil, Lemon Balm, Skullcap

Skin/hair changes -With age, our skin becomes thinner and less elastic. These changes are accentuated at menopause as estrogen appears to play an important role in maintaining the skin. Women may notice a change in the skin's texture and tone. They may also find their skin is dryer or oilier than before. Women may experience an increase in facial hair and thinning of hair on the scalp, related to a change in balance between estrogen and the male hormone testosterone. Thinning of the pubic hair can also take place.

Suggested Herbs: Vitex, Black Cohosh,Wild Mexican Yam, Fennel, Sage, Anise, Licorice Root

Other Symptoms

- These are some other symptoms that are attributed to menopause. Depression, forgetfulness, anxiety, irritability and a decrease in metabolic rate which can contribute to weight gain.

Suggested Herbs: Irritability-Black Cohosh, Vitex. Stress/Overall Relief-Red Clover, Korean & Chinese Ginseng, Gotu Kola, Bilberry, Gingko Biloba, Basil,
Milk Thistle, Chamomile, St. John's Wort, Damiana, Basil, Lemon Balm, Skullcap,Wood Betony, Linden Flower, Peppermint

- Estrogen plays a significant role in maintaining healthy vaginal tissue. The reduction in estrogen levels at menopause can cause thinning of the vagina tissue and vaginal dryness. A woman may find penetrative sex painful due to the lack of lubrication and reduced elasticity of the vaginal walls. Changes in the vagina's pH level (which keeps naturally occurring bacteria in balance) can also occur, resulting in bacterial infections.

Suggested Herbs: Yellow Dock, Mother wort, Raspberry Leaf, Nettle, Aloe Vera - Usually resulting from night sweats can cause many women to get up and change their clothing and or their bedding. These interruptions can leave you feeling fatigued the next day. Some woman may experience insomnia and have a hard time getting to sleep.

Suggested Herbs:Poppy, Kava, Valerian, Chamomile, Catnip, Passion Flower, Skullcap - Hot flushes are feelings of heat that spread to the chest, neck, face or even the whole body and may be accompanied by sweating, nausea, heart palpitations, and flushed skin. Hot flushes that occur at night are referred to as night sweats. They can last anywhere from 30 seconds to five minutes or occasionally longer. Hot flushes and night sweats can be aggravated by stress, anxiety, alcohol, hot food and drinks, spicy foods, overdressing and a hot environment.

Suggested herbs: Black Cohosh, Vitex, Licorice Root, Wild Mexican Yam, Hibiscus, Linden Flower, Peppermint, Yarrow, Honeysuckle, Ginger, Gotu Kola, Red Clover