In the United States, the following herbs are among the most commonly used remedies for relieving menopausal symptoms: Black cohosh. A relative of the buttercup, black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) is probably the best-known herbal remedy for treating menopausal symptoms. Dong quai.
Which supplements are used to treat menopausal hot flashes (menopause)?
Phytoestrogen supplements for the treatment of hot flashes: the isoflavone clover extract (ICE) study: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA. 2003;290:207–214. [ PubMed] [ Google Scholar] 134. van de Weijer PH, Barentsen R. Isoflavones from red clover (Promensil) significantly reduce menopausal hot flush symptoms compared with placebo.
What are the symptoms of menopause and how can cam help?
Menopause is associated with problematic symptoms, including hot flashes, sleep problems, mood disorders, sexual dysfunction, weight gain, and declines in cognitive functioning. Many women seek complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for symptom management.
Are there systematic reviews of complementary and alternative medicine for menopause?
This critical review included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a sample size of at least 10 (including randomized pilot studies), or systematic reviews, that were published in the English language, in peer-reviewed journals on or before March 31, 2017 that reported on complementary and alternative medicine for menopause symptoms.
What are the herbal preparations for the menopause?
Depypere HT, Comhaire FH. Herbal preparations for the menopause: beyond isoflavones and black cohosh. Maturitas. 2014;77:191–194. [ PubMed] [ Google Scholar] 101. Overk CR, Yao P, Chadwick LR, et al. Comparison of the in vitro estrogenic activities of compounds from hops (Humulus lupulus) and red clover (Trifolium pratense).
What herbal supplement is used for menopausal symptoms?
Here are 10 herbs and supplements commonly used to manage menopause symptoms, plus the evidence behind them and relevant safety information.Black cohosh. ... Red clover. ... Dong quai. ... Evening primrose oil. ... Maca. ... Soy. ... Flax seeds. ... Ginseng.More items...
What supplement helps with menopause?
Black cohosh is one of the most well studied supplements for menopause. It's made from the root of the North American black cohosh plant. Several studies have found it helps -- especially with hot flashes -- when compared to placebo (a fake treatment).
What can I take to reduce menopause symptoms?
TreatmentHormone therapy. Estrogen therapy is the most effective treatment option for relieving menopausal hot flashes. ... Vaginal estrogen. ... Low-dose antidepressants. ... Gabapentin (Gralise, Horizant, Neurontin). ... Clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay). ... Medications to prevent or treat osteoporosis.
Which supplement is sometimes used to reduce symptoms of menopause or premenstrual syndrome?
Currently, black cohosh is promoted as a dietary supplement for hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. It's also been promoted for other conditions, including menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome, and to induce labor.
Is vitamin E Good for menopause?
Absolutely! Clinical studies conducted by the National Institute of Health (NIH) have shown that vitamin E can significantly ease the discomfort that comes with hot flashes. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can support women through the menopausal transition with a variety of menopausal symptoms.
Does omega-3 help with menopause?
Omega-3 fatty acids ease psychological distress and depressive symptoms often suffered by menopausal and perimenopausal women, according to new research. The study presents the first evidence that omega-3 supplements are effective for treating common menopause-related mental health problems.
What helps menopause naturally?
Natural Treatments for Menopause SymptomsBlack Cohosh.Soy.Flaxseed, ground or oil.Vitamin E.Yoga, Aerobic Exercise, Breathing Exercises.Cold Drinks.Warning.Lifestyle Changes.
How does black cohosh help menopause?
Studies show that black cohosh binds to the body's opioid receptors, giving it a painkilling effect. Today, it's sometimes used to reduce the muscle aches and body pains associated with menopause, perimenopause and postmenopause.
Is there any medicine to delay menopause?
Oral contraceptives. Using birth control pills during your reproductive years are associated with later onset of menopause, especially for Black women, studies show. More research needs to be done to understand why birth control pills delay menopause.
Does magnesium help with menopause?
Magnesium plays a vital role in health throughout all life stages. During menopause, it's important for keeping bones strong and preventing osteoporosis, or weakening of bones. Magnesium may also reduce unwanted side effects of menopause, such as difficulty sleeping and depression while supporting heart health.
How does red clover help menopause?
Red clover may also have blood-thinning properties, which keeps blood clots from forming. It appears to improve blood flow. Researchers think that isoflavones, like those found in red clover, might help reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats, because of their estrogen-like effects.
What vitamin is good for menopause hot flashes?
A 2013 study found that vitamin B-9, also known folate, was effective in reducing the number and severity of hot flashes a person experienced.
Do menopause supplements really work?
Some products contain herbal ingredients that help regulate hormone levels, boost hair growth, or improve your body's response to stress, all of wh...
Which vitamins may help with menopause symptoms?
Several vitamins and minerals could help relieve menopause symptoms. For instance, vitamin D supplements have been shown to support vaginal health...
What are the best supplements for hot flashes and night sweats?
Several herbal supplements could be beneficial for the treatment of hot flashes and night sweats. Some of the most common ingredients to look for a...
Are menopause supplements safe?
Menopause supplements often contain a blend of herbal ingredients and are generally considered safe when used as directed. However, there are alway...
Should I take these supplements daily?
While most of the supplements included on this list are intended to be taken daily, you should follow the directions on the label carefully and use...
How can I balance my menopause hormones naturally?
A healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and a daily balanced diet can help you balance hormones during menopause. In some cases you may...
What are natural remedies for menopause symptoms?
Natural remedies for menopause symptoms include herbal supplements that can help ease menopause symptoms. Some of these contain plant estrogens cal...
What foods make menopause worse?
Foods that cause your blood sugar (glucose) levels to spike can worsen some symptoms of menopause. These include refined carbohydrates such as suga...
How can you stop hot flashes quickly?
Stay cool with breathable clothing and bedding to help reduce or stop hot flashes. Stress and certain foods such as spicy foods, caffeine and alcoh...
Do natural remedies help reduce menopause symptoms?
Natural remedies such as eating a healthy balanced diet with plenty of protein and staying hydrated can help reduce menopause symptoms - and they a...
What is the best multivitamin for menopause?
This multivitamin includes black cohosh, a medicinal root which may help to decrease specific symptoms of menopause. It also features red clover, licorice, and sage, which may help reduce the occurrence of hot flashes.
What is rainbow light menopause?
Rainbow Light Menopause One. A multivitamin formulated with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and superfoods, Menopause One is designed to help with hot flashes and night sweats. It also may help to boost energy and mood and memory. This supplement features plant-source enzymes, which are easy to digest.
What vitamins are in a multivitamin?
It also contains natural soy isoflavones and key nutrients, including vitamins B-6, B-12, and D, plus calcium and magnesium for bone health and energy.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Many women will experience menopause. With this stage, however, also brings a host of symptoms, including hot flashes, insomnia, a change in sex drive, night sweats, and mood changes. To help ease these symptoms, there are a number of options that may help, including multivitamins. But with so many varieties, the question remains: Which is ...
Can menopause cause low energy?
Menopause is a natural reproductive stage that some women experience. While menopause symptoms can be uncomfortable, there are steps you can take to potentially reduce them, including taking a multivitamin. These may help with a number of symptoms, from hot flashes and low energy to change in sex drive and mood swings.
What supplements can help with menopause?
Here are the most common natural supplements for reducing symptoms of menopause: 1 Phytoestrogens: These can be consumed through natural food sources or supplements such as red clover extracts. There is currently not enough evidence to recommend them for alleviating menopause symptoms ( 25#N#Trusted Source#N#, 26#N#Trusted Source#N#). 2 Black cohosh: Although some studies found that black cohosh may effectively alleviate hot flashes, the evidence is mixed. In addition, there is a lack of long-term data on the safety of this supplement ( 18#N#Trusted Source#N#, 27#N#Trusted Source#N#). 3 Other supplements: Evidence is scarce for the effectiveness of other commonly used supplements such as probiotics, prebiotics, kava, DHEA-S, dong quai and evening primrose oil.
How to prevent menopause symptoms?
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help prevent a number of menopause symptoms.
What happens to bones during menopause?
Hormonal changes during menopause can cause bones to weaken, increasing the risk of osteoporosis.
What are the risks of menopause?
In addition, menopausal women are at a higher risk of several diseases including osteoporosis, obesity, heart disease and diabetes ( 2 ).
Why do women get dry during menopause?
During menopause, women often experience dryness. This is likely caused by the decrease in estrogen levels.
Why does heart disease increase after menopause?
This could be due to factors such as age, weight gain or possibly reduced estrogen levels.
Is menopause a natural illness?
Menopause is not an illness. It’s a natural part of life.
Does red clover help with hormones?
As with black cohosh, however, some women claim that red clover has helped them. Studies report few side effects and no serious health problems with use. But studies in animals have raised concerns that red clover might have harmful effects on hormone-sensitive tissue.
Does black cohosh act like estrogen?
Recent research suggests that black cohosh does not act like estrogen, as once thought. This reduces concerns about its effect on hormone-sensitive tissue (eg, uterus, breast). Black cohosh has had a good safety record over a number of years.
Does ginseng help with hot flashes?
However, it has not been found to be helpful for hot flashes.
Does kava cause hot flashes?
Kava. ( Piper methysticum ) Kava may decrease anxiety, but there is no evidence that it decreases hot flashes. It is important to note that kava has been associated with liver disease. The FDA has issued a warning to patients and providers about kava because of its potential to damage the liver.
Is herbal medicine regulated?
The public usually takes herbal therapies in the form of supplement pills, not as a preparation made directly from the herb by a trained herbalist. Keep in mind that herbal supplements are not as closely regulated as prescription drugs.
Does black cohosh help with hot flashes?
Black Cohosh. ( Actaea racemosa, Cimicifuga racemosa) This herb has received quite a bit of scientific attention for its possible effects on hot flashes. Studies of its effectiveness in reducing hot flashes have produced mixed results. However, some women report that it has helped them.
What is the best acupuncture for menopause?
An additional acupuncture technique that has been studied for use in menopause is electroacupuncture, which includes the passing of a small electrical current between acupuncture needles. Three trials assessed the use of electroacupuncture. One study found significant improvements in mood only. 168 Two studies found no significant difference from placebo. 169, 170
How does biofeedback help with menopause?
Biofeedback and relaxation techniques may include progressive muscle relaxation, relaxation combined with thermal control biofeedback training, paced respiration, at-home relaxation audiotapes, and applied relaxation, and have been used to treat menopausal symptoms . Biofeedback uses a device to monitor bodily functions that are normally automatic (eg, skin temperature, heart rate, or muscle tension) and provides “feedback” to the patient. Feedback and relaxation techniques (eg, guided imagery, deep breathing, and paced respiration) are then used to control stress responses. In a systematic review of psychoeducational interventions to relieve hot flashes, 30 reviewers identified 7 randomized trials 31 – 37 that compared relaxation with an active (eg, reading, α-electroencephalography, hormone therapy) or no-treatment control. Five of the trials 31, 32, 34 – 36 reviewed indicated relaxation techniques (eg, paced respiration, progressive muscle relaxation) may reduce the frequency of hot flashes and improve psychological symptoms of menopause. However, the authors caution about drawing conclusions due to the low study quality and small sample sizes. 30 In a second systematic review and meta-analysis 38 of relaxation techniques for menopausal symptoms, 4 studies, 31, 34, 39, 40 (2 of which 31, 34 were included in the previous review 30 ), were identified that compared relaxation with a control (eg, no treatment, placebo, superficial needling) for the reduction of menopausal symptoms. Researchers concluded that relaxation techniques may have a positive benefit on vasomotor symptoms and stress, yet due to low-quality evidence and inconsistent findings, relaxation techniques could not be recommended at this time. 38 Because of the considerable overlap in studies reviewed, effect sizes are not reported.
How many women will be menopausal by 2030?
1, 2 Approximately 1.2 billion women worldwide will be menopausal or postmenopausal by the year 2030, with 47 million new entrants each year. 3 More than 85% of these women will experience problematic symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, sexual dysfunction, mood disorders, weight gain, and cognitive declines. 1, 4
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Studies that included symptoms of menopause (eg, vasomotor, depression, sleep disturbance) as the primary outcome were included. The most commonly investigated menopausal symptoms are vasomotor symptoms (eg, hot flashes, hot flushes, night sweats). This is not surprising since vasomotor complaints are the primary symptoms women seek treatment for during the menopause transitition. 5 The placebo effect has been demonstrated to reduce hot flashes on average in RCTs by 25%, 14, 15 and previous research indicates a 50% reduction in hot flash frequency to be a clinically meaningful change. 16 Hot flashes can be measured through subjective reports and physiological monitoring. However, subjective and objective measures may not be reliably comparable. The method of hot flash measurement is noted where appropriate.
How effective is hypnosis for hot flashes?
18, 19 These results are comparable to pharmacological interventions. 20 In an RCT of 187 women, 21 hypnosis was compared with an active structured attention control and found to significantly reduce subjective hot flash frequency (74%) and interference (80%), and physiologically monitored hot flashes (57%). In addition, hypnosis improved self-reported sleep quality and sexual function. 21, 22 In a recent pilot study, 23 71 women were randomized to 1 of 4 groups: venlafaxine 75 mg + hypnosis, venlafaxine 75 mg + sham hypnosis, placebo pill + hypnosis, and placebo pill + sham hypnosis. Hypnosis alone was as effective (50% reduction) as venlafaxine 75 mg alone in reducing hot flash score (frequency × severity). The placebo group reported a 25% reduction. Hypnosis has been recommended by the North American Menopause Society, and others, for the treatment of menopausal symptoms and poses little risk. 24, 25
Is evening primrose oil good for hot flushes?
Evening primrose oil (EPO), the oil from the seed of the evening primrose plant, contains essential omega-6 fatty acids and has been used to treat multiple inflammatory diseases and women’s health conditions. In an RCT comparing the effects of EPO to placebo on VMS, Chenoy et al 95 reported that 4 g/d of EPO for 6 months was no better than placebo for reducing hot flushing. There were no significant improvements demonstrated in either group. 95 In a recent RCT comparing 500 mg of EPO daily to placebo on VMS, hot flash frequency was reduced by 39% (EPO) and 32% (placebo) after 6 weeks. Hot flash severity and duration decreased by 42% (EPO) and 32% (placebo) and 19% (EPO) and 18% (placebo), respectively. While the differences between EPO and placebo were statistically significant, improvements in the treatment group were not clinically meaningful. 96 Two RCTs 97 have been conducted to investigate the effects of EPO on bone mineral density loss in premenopause and post menopause. Both groups of participants (pre- and postmenopause) were randomized to receive EPO (4.0 g) in combination with marine fish oil (440 mg) and calcium (1.0 g) (ie, Efacal) compared with calcium (1.0 g) alone. All participants, irrespective of treatment or menopause phase, showed significant increases (1%) in bone mineral density. The supplement Efacal was not significantly better than calcium alone for increasing bone mineral density. 97 There is not enough evidence to support the use of EPO for menopausal symptoms at this time.
Is black cohosh good for menopause?
In an RCT comparing isopropanolic black cohosh extract in combination with ethanolic St John’s wort with placebo among 301 women, scores on the Menopause Rating Scale decreased by 50% in the treatment group compared to 19% in the placebo group. 78 Depression also significantly decreased compared with placebo, P < .001. 78 In a second RCT comparing the effects of black cohosh plus St John’s wort (GYNO-Plus), scores on the Kupperman Index showed significant improvements ( p < .001) in the treatment group compared with placebo. 79 However, it is difficult to conclude from these studies if black cohosh is beneficial in itself or only in combination with other herbs. More research is needed using standardized preparations. Side effects of black cohosh may include: gastrointestinal problems, rash, and acute hepatitis. 12, 17, 61
What is the best supplement for menopause?
1 / 13. Black cohosh is one of the most well studied supplements for menopause. It's made from the root of the North American black cohosh plant. Several studies have found it helps -- especially with hot flashes -- when compared to placebo (a fake treatment). But other studies haven't found a benefit.
What foods help with hot flashes?
Soy foods (such as soy nuts and tofu) and phytoestrogen supplements -- estrogen-like compounds found in some plants -- are sometimes used to relieve mild hot flashes. The research isn't conclusive, though.
What are some alternatives to hormones?
Wild Yam: Alternative to Hormones. 6 / 13. Pills and creams made from certain species of wild yam are popular alternatives to hormone therapy for menopause. Some of the natural compounds in these yams appear similar to estrogen and progesterone, but it's possible they are not active in people.
Does ginseng help with menopause?
A few studies have found evidence that the different types of ginseng might help improve quality of life during menopause. Ginseng has been shown to boost mood and improve sleep. But so far, studies haven't found that either American or Korean ginseng helps with physical symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes.
Does flaxseed oil help with hot flashes?
It's a good source of lignans, which tend to balance female hormones. Not all studies have shown these benefits in relieving hot flashes, though.
Does red clover help with menopause?
Many women use red clover hoping that its natural plant estrogens will ease their menopause symptoms. So far, though, the research results have been mixed. Despite early concern, recent studies have not shown an increase in uterine cancer when women took red clover for 3 months.
Does DHEA cause breast cancer?
Natural levels of DHEA hormone drop in our bodies after age 30. Some small studies have found that DHEA supplements ease menopause symptoms such as low libido and hot flashes. The evidence is mixed. Other studies have found no benefit. There is some concern that long-term use or high doses of DHEA may raise the risk of breast cancer.
Black cohosh
Black cohosh is one of the most studied herbs. Native Americans have historically used it to treat a range of conditions. Researchers have reported some evidence that black cohosh can help relieve hot flashes and insomnia due to menopause. However, further research is necessary, particularly regarding safety.
Red clover
Red clover contains isoflavones, which are structurally similar to estrogen and could help reduce menopause symptoms. However, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), studies of its impact on hot flashes, cholesterol levels, and bone density did not show consistent results.
Panax ginseng
Also known as Asian ginseng, this plant has anti-inflammatory properties and displays hormonal effects similar to estrogen. It may help manage hot flashes.
Valerian
People have traditionally used this herb to treat insomnia and anxiety. One study suggested it may be helpful for people who have trouble sleeping or hot flashes due to menopause.
Sage
A 2019 study of postmenopausal women given a sage extract supplement found an improvement of concentration, and reductions in hot flashes, night sweats, panic, and fatigue. However, it is important to note that the study focused on a small sample of 30 people.
Dong quai
Dong quai is primarily used in conjunction with other herbs, such as black cohosh.
Licorice
Licorice contains many active ingredients, including terpenes, isoflavonoids, and steroids.
How long can you take a saline pill?
d. "You may use it safely up to 8 weeks at a time as a preventive medication."
When was the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act passed?
a. are classified as medications by the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act of 1994.
Does Ginseng inhibit the immune system?
a. "Ginseng will inhibit your immune system."
Is it safe to take herbal medicine?
There are two types of monographs under development to compile information about these substances, but there are no agencies that regulate safety and efficacy. Patients should always tell providers if they are taking any herbal remedies since there are known drug-herbal interactions and side effects.
What hormones are involved in menopause?
During menopause, the balance between estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone hormones changes. The period before menopause is called perimenopause, and with it comes symptoms like hot flashes and mood changes. These symptoms start to subside in menopause. Most women begin to experience perimenopause symptoms during their 40s and 50s, ...
What is the best herb for menopause?
Valerian. Valerian root has health benefits that include treating insomnia, anxiety, headaches, and stress. It’s also been an option for women entering menopause due to its ability to reduce hot flashes. The herb can also treat joint pain.
What is the best herb for hot flashes?
Black cohosh root. Black cohosh root has been found to reduce vaginal dryness and hot flashes in menopausal women. Research suggests that it’s most effective for women who experience early menopause. It can be taken in pill form, or more popularly, as a tea.
What is the best way to reduce bone loss during menopause?
9. Green tea . A 2009 study revealed that green tea can be an effective way to strengthen bone metabolism and decrease the risk of bone fractures, especially in women experiencing menopause. Green tea is also full of antioxidants, some caffeine, and EGCG.
Is red clover tea safe for menopause?
This tea is generally considered safe to take during perimenopause and into menopause. 5. Red clover. Used primarily to treat hot flashes and night sweats in women with menopause, red clover has also been used to treat high blood pressure, improve bone strength, and boost immunity. It’s generally considered safe.
Does ginseng help with menopause?
also showed that red ginseng can help menopausal women increase sexual arousal and improve their sex lives. You can drink ginseng tea daily to get its benefits. Taking ginseng as an herb can have many interactions with numerous medications include heart, blood pressure, diabetes, and blood-thinning medications.
Is raspberry leaf tea safe for menopause?
4. Red raspberry leaf. Red raspberry leaf tea hasn’t been linked to easing common perimenopause symptoms. However, it’s an effective way to lessen heavy menstrual flows, especially those that come at the onset of perimenopause for many women. This tea is generally considered safe to take during perimenopause and into menopause. 5.