ERI LA Socio-Political Blog

Looking for alternative treatments for menopause has increased significantly during the past few years especially since hormone replacement therapy has received some not so favorable publicity.

However, while HRT has received criticism in many circles as an effective treatment for menopause symptoms it’s still the most popular form of relief. As a “quickfix” solution, HRT’s benefits are almost immediate but it’s the long term effects which concern many women.

Alternative treatments such as herbs for menopause continue to grow in popularity as women seek out more natural relief methods. While herbs for menopause symptoms have many benefits without the side effects associated with HRT, the fact remains, it’s a process which takes time to have benefits and that’s why it’s often recommended women combine treatment such as HRT with herbs for menopause.

Herbs For Menopause

Herbs have been used since ancient times to treat a variety of ailments and conditions and there’s no question they can be effective. However, indiscriminate use of herbs can definitely present some problems so if you’re thinking of going down this route then consult with your doctor or a herbs specialist.

Let’s take a look at some of the more popular herbs for menopause which have proven to have effective benefits against symptoms:

- Black Cohosh is one of the better known herbs used as a menopause relief option. It’s beneficial for symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. An example of Black Cohosh being used as an herb for menopause is Remifemin that has been used in Germany from about the mid-fifties as a means of managing menopause. Though this is an effective solution to finding relief from symptoms of menopause, you should first of all consult your doctor before being prescribed herbs for menopause.

- Chaste Tree Berry is another popular herbal option. This is also often referred to as Vitex, Hemp Tree, and even Mang Jing Zi and which is very often used in order to get relief from menstrual symptoms, but it is not recommended for use for women that may have suffered from or are suffering from cancer.

- Another herbal treatment revolves around the use of Red Clover although it’s not considered as effective as the above two. Also, Red Clover is better eaten than taken as supplement and it also is not safe to be taken by women that suffer from cancer.

- While herbs for menopause certainly has a place as a natural treatment method, it’s yet to be determined if they are the complete solution for menopause.

Besides taking herbs for menopause, you may also need to take additional steps including eating plenty of fruits and vegetables as well as whole grains on a daily basis.

Eliminating or reducing saturated fats intake, alcohol intake as well as refraining from smoking and also making it a point to exercise regularly can be beneficial as well.