Try the Natural Approach to Fighting Menopause Symptoms

KimA |

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Prescription drugs aren't always the best way to treat menopause symptoms. Indeed, not every remedy will work for everyone and things that work for some women many not be sufficient for you. There are many herbal remedies in health stores and pharmacies that can be purchased with no prescription. Many women find that these are very effective at providing natural menopause relief. Just be sure to always read the instructions and do what they say. Also, keep in mind that it may take up to 3 months for a natural remedy to actually start working.

There are many herbal remedies for menopause relief that work quite effectively, like black cohosh which can be taken as a pill. Black cohosh has a few side effects such as bloating, gas and vomiting. If you have a blood pressure problem this herb will also affect that well. This herb should only be taken for 6 months at a time because it tends to stop working after that.

Dong quai is a Chinese herb that has been known to quell hot flashes. It appears to help regulate hormonal levels that are out of balance, most likely due to the phytoestrogens it contains. It hasn't been established whether it works because of estrogen-like effects or if it blocks estrogens in the body. This herb is also a blood thinner.

Chasteberry also seems to offer some help with mood swings that are associated with menopause. The benefits of chasteberry derive from its actions upon the pituitary gland. Chaste berry inhibits prolactin secretion and thus helps to stablilize hormone levels. It seems to be more effective when used in conjunction with dong quai or black cohosh.

St. John's Wort is great for mood swings and depression experienced during menopause. Studies of women who used it in conjunction with black cohosh showed that it provided considerable relief from menopausal symptoms. However do not stay in the sun long when taking it, as you will get sunburned more easily, and the herb will lose its effectiveness. This herb will only work for about 2 years.

Hot flashes have also been found to be reduced by taking vitamin E. Another natural substance that helps is soy. Soy can be taken into the body by drinking soy milk, eating soybeans, adding edamame to salads or snacking on soy nuts.

There are other steps you can take to ease the symptoms of menopause. Avoid certain substances like caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods. Keep your stress under control. Try applying ice packs when a hot flash occurs, and be mindful that those women who exercise regularly may not have as many symptoms. Stay away from taking hot showers or baths right before going to bed because they can cause night sweats.

You can also talk to the people at the local health food shop to see if they have more suggestions for natural remedies. Be aware that you must take any remedy for a minimum of three months to ascertain if it is going to work. Always talk to your doctor first to see if it's safe for you to take herbal and natural remedies, as they might interfere with certain prescription menopause medications you are already taking.