Herbal Supplements

Black Cohosh

A herb that’s very popular to help cut down on hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, black cohosh may also help with cramps, heavy periods and other menstrual irregularities. Studies conducted using black cohosh have shown that it appears to be quite effective, especially for hot flashes. And some researchers believe it may help prevent osteoporosis and reduce bone resorption, although no long-term studies conducted on humans have substantiated this. Most studies recommend that you take black cohosh extract that contains either 20 or 40 mg twice a day — and keep in mind that it may take two to four weeks before you notice results. One note: The German Commission E (which studies herbs) recommends that you take this no longer than six months, however, this was before more recent studies examining its toxic properties were conducted — and these found that black cohosh appears to be safe for long term use. In addition, a recent study found that black cohosh might encourage the growth of breast cancer tumours, so if you’re a cancer survivor speak with your doctor before trying this. Caution for those on blood pressure treatments and those sensitive to ASPIRIN OR SALICYLATES

Chasteberry

 (also known as Vitex agnus castus): This (like black cohosh) appears to act like progesterone and has been used in Europe for many years to alleviate PMS symptoms as well as menopausal symptoms. It may help diminish both LH and FSH and appears to affect your pituitary function. Different studies have found that it reduced menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes and irregular bleeding. And it appears to be very helpful for breast tenderness, primarily because chaste berry suppresses prolactin production. Typically, it takes about three to four weeks of notice results. One note, however: While chaste berry is widely used in Europe, there have been no double-blind placebo studies conducted on it.

Evening Primrose Oil

A good source of GLA (gamma-linoleic acid), evening primrose oil has been used by many women to help fight PMS symptoms — many of which are the same as menopausal symptoms. It’s a good bet to help prevent bloating, water retention, breast tenderness, cramps and vaginal dryness.

St. Johns Wort

If you’re finding yourself more easily depressed, St. Johns Wort may help. Widely touted as a natural tranquilizer, this herb helps relieve irritability, depression, and fatigue. Over 23 different studies have found that it’s effective in fighting depression — which often affects women when their hormone levels plunge suddenly, such as after surgical menopause. Caution: many drug interactions-Check with your pharmacist. Common drugs affected: DIGOXIN, THE ORAL CONTRACEPTIVE PILL, MIGRAINE DRUGS, ANTI ASTHMA (THEOPHYLLINE) AND ANTI EPILEPTIC DRUGS, WARFARIN, CYCLOSPORIN, HIV DRUGS AND OTHERS. DO NOT TAKE WITH OTHER ANTIDEPRESSANT DRUGS

Kava Kava

Another herb that appears to be a big help in reducing anxiety, fighting depression, and leveling mood swings, kava kava has been shown to be quite effective. One recent study found that women with menopausal symptoms taking 100 mg of kava kava three times a day reported a difference after only one week.. Unfortunately it has been withdrawn due to reported liver damage as a side effect.

Valerian

If you’re suffering from insomnia, a common symptom, valerian may help. It’s used widely in Europe to treat sleep disturbances, as well as for nervousness and menstrual problems. It’s also known as an anxiety reliever — so may help with mood swings and tension. May have interactions with alcohol, benzodiazepines, CNS depressants.

Gingko Biloba

is known as Maidenhair Tree or the “Memory Tree” extract. It is reported to be helpful with circulation and therefore memory. It helps improve glucose and oxygen supply to the brain. Caution: risk of increased clotting time and thus haemorrhage. Should not be taken with drugs that reduce clottings such as Warfarin, Aspirin or coumarins.

Sage

This herb can be taken as a tea or as an extract to help with hot flushes. There are studies ongoing into its effectiveness but does seem to have a regulating effect on hormones. Caution with HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE and if taking TAMOXIFEN

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Wild Yam

Orally, wild yam is used as a “natural alternative” for estrogen replacement therapy, postmenopausal vaginal dryness, osteoporosis, increasing libido and energy. Topically it is used for menopausal vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes. Women with hormone-sensitive cancers/conditions should avoid wild yam.