7 Natural Menopause Treatments That Really Work
Menopause, as a pivotal phase in a woman’s life, embodies a profound hormonal transformation characterized by the diminishing production of estrogen. This intricate biological shift instigates a cascade of physiological changes, thereby manifesting as distressing symptoms such as the notorious hot flashes, vexing vaginal dryness, perturbing insomnia, and capricious mood swings. Although conventional hormone therapy has been a pragmatic modality for mitigating these disruptive symptoms, it is not without its share of trepidations concerning potential health implications, particularly for specific subsets of the population.
However, a silver lining emerges in the form of natural alternatives, presenting an intrinsic capacity to genuinely alleviate these manifestations by targeting the root causes of menopausal tribulations. In this comprehensive article, we shall embark on a journey through 7 natural menopause treatments that really work, each of which has demonstrated its noteworthy efficacy in ameliorating the multifaceted challenges posed by this transitional phase in a woman’s life.
Here are the 7 Natural Menopause Treatments That Really Work:
1. Phytoestrogens
Phytoestrogens are plant compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. Food sources include:
- Soy products like tofu, tempeh, and edamame – Soy contains isoflavones that act as estrogen.
- Flax seeds – Provide lignans that balance hormone levels.
- Legumes – Beans, peas, and lentils are rich in phytoestrogens.
- Fruits like apples, oranges, cherries – Contain various antioxidant phytonutrients.
The optimal way of taking advantage of the beneficial properties of phytoestrogens as an appropriate therapeutic option for symptoms typical for menopausal period is to consume on average one to two portions of soya along with one tbsp of grinded flaxseed and one glass Phytoestrogens are natural compounds existing in plants that can ease these symptoms such as hot flushes, vaginal dryness and mood changes as women go through menopause.
2. Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is an herb long used to treat menopausal symptoms. It works by:
- Acting on serotonin receptors – Helps regulate body temperature regulation to reduce hot flashes.
- Reducing inflammation – Eases hormonally-driven inflammatory changes.
- Mimicking estrogen – Binds to estrogen receptors providing gentle estrogenic activity.
Take 40-80 mg of standardized black cohosh extract daily. Effects may take 4-6 weeks. Avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
3. Evening Primrose Oil
Evening primrose oil is derived from the seeds of this flowering plant. It contains:
- Gamma-linolenic acid – An anti-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acid that regulates prostaglandins and eases symptoms.
- Linoleic acid – Softens vaginal tissue and boosts cervical mucus when vaginal dryness is a problem.
Typical dosage is 500-1000 mg daily. Reduce dose if diarrhea occurs. Helps hot flashes, mood swings, fatigue and urogenital changes.
4. Vitamin E
Vitamin E balances reproductive hormones and alleviates irritating menopause changes through:
- Estrogen modulation – Helps stabilize fluctuating estrogen levels.
- Vaginal health – Its antioxidant nature improves dryness, thinning, and inflammation.
- Hot flash relief – Shown in studies to reduce frequency and intensity.
Take 400-800IU of natural vitamin E from food and supplements daily. May take up to 6 months for benefits.
5. Meditation
Meditation and controlled breathing counteract stress for menopausal symptom relief:
- Lowers cortisol – Decreases the body’s primary stress hormone that spikes during menopause.
- Deep relaxation – Elicits the “relaxation response” to soothe nerves.
- Better sleep – Reduces nighttime waking and insomnia.
- Slowed breathing – Prevents hot flashes triggered by rapid, shallow breathing.
Aim for 15-20 minutes of meditation 1-2x daily. Apps like Calm provide guided sessions. Yoga also pairs well.
6. Acupuncture
Acupuncture leverages pressure points connected to reproductive health. Benefits include:
- Increased endorphins – Boosts painkilling chemicals to alleviate discomfort.
- Improved blood flow – Enhances circulation to the hormonal glands for regulation.
- Restored Qi flow – Unblocks feminine energy flow according to Chinese medicine.
Get weekly acupuncture sessions from a licensed provider during the menopausal transition for optimal effects.
7. Maca Root
Maca is a Peruvian plant in the broccoli family touted to balance hormones. It contains:
- Sterols – Phytochemicals with estrogen-like effects that reduce hot flash intensity.
- Alkaloids – Mood lifting compounds that ease irritability and depression.
Take 1,500-3,000 mg daily. Look for gelatinized maca for easier absorption. Maca can help stabilize mood, energy, libido, and sleep.
7 Natural Menopause Treatments That Really Work Conclusion:
Natural remedies provide a safer first-line approach to managing menopause. Phytoestrogens, herbs, vitamins, acupuncture, breathwork and maca root target hormonal fluctuations, hot flashes, vaginal changes, sleep disruption, and emotional upset effectively for many women. While not as fast acting as medications, natural options restore balance gently without increasing health risks. Speak to your healthcare provider to develop an integrative menopause treatment plan that meets your needs. You’ve got this!
7 Natural Menopause Treatments That Really Work FAQs:
What herb is best for menopause? Black cohosh is considered the gold standard herbal treatment, working similarly to estrogen while also reducing inflammation.
What role do phytoestrogens play in alleviating menopaual signs and symptoms? These are actually phytoestrogens which are present in soya beans, flaxseed, legumes ect. They provide relief of hot flashes, vaginal atrophy as well as bone loss.
What’s the safest way to take estrogen for menopause? Low-dose transdermal patches, creams, and vaginal estrogen deliver hormones directly to tissues needing them while minimizing risks.
How long do menopause symptoms last? Menopausal transition symptoms typically persist for 4-5 years on average as hormones gradually decline. But they can last over a decade for some women.
Is maca safe to take every day? Yes, doses up to 3 grams per day appear safe long-term based on traditional use and research. Maca balances hormones, energizes, and stabilizes mood with few side effects.
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