Herbs for Menopause

Are There Herbs for Menopause?

Though hormone replacement is effective in treating the many symptoms related to menopause, many women prefer to avoid use of hormones because of perceived and potential risks.  And they turn to herbs for menopause.

Herbs have long been used successfully to treat menopausal symptoms. Dr. Manny from FoxNews interviews Pina LoGiudice, a naturopathic physician, on herbs to treat menopause. Dr. LoGiudice discusses five herbs to treat five symptoms of menopause.

1. hot flashes – Sage
2. insomnia – Valerian
3. anxiety – Kava Kava
4. low energy – Ashwagandha
5. lack of focus/concentration – Bacopa

In addition, some studies show the black cohosh can be effective in treating hot flahses.  Since herbs can interact with prescribed and over-the-counter medications discuss using herbs to treat menopausal symptoms with your physician.

In our opinion hormone replacement is more effective and provides potentially more health benefits than herbs for menopause, but herbs can be effective during the perimenopausal period and early menopause stage.

Hormones have the additional benefit of protecting bone density so crucial to avoiding osteoporosis. Estradiol has neurotransmitter like properties in the brain and progesterone stimulates GABA receptors in the brain important in reducing anxiety. In addition, hormones when in balance with another protects against hormone sensitive cancers (breast, endometrial, and ovarian).

To watch video click FoxNews.

See related articles.

“Having Hot Flashes”

“5 More Alternatives to Female Hormone Replacement Therapy”

“Hormone Replacement Therapy Pros and Cons”

“Menopause and Lifestyle”