Other than HRT, there are also other alternative options available to manage menopause. Botanical products from natural sources are also popular in the field of relieving menopausal symptoms. These botanical products usually contain estrogen-like compounds in plants called phytoestrogens.
There are some botanical supplements which are used to relieve menopausal symptoms. They are normally made available in the form of pills and creams.
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The common botanical products used are soy isoflavones, black cohosh, red clover, dong quai, wild mexican yam and chaste tree berry.
Soy isoflavones, usually found in soybeans, are known to be useful for alleviating hot flushes and night sweats. If taken over a long period of time, it is also believed that soy isoflavones may have positive effects on cholesterol level and bone health. However, excessive consumption of soy protein may contribute to high uric acid plasma levels and gout.
Black cohosh is commonly used to alleviate hot flushes and night sweats. It can help calm the nervous system as it nourishes the blood vessels resulting in a more balanced hormone level for menopausal women. Research shows that it contains substances that bind to estrogen receptors. However, research reveals that black cohosh is not recommended to be used for more than six months, i.e. not suitable for extended, long term usage as it may have adverse effects on the uterine or breast tissue.
Red clover extract helps to cleanse some of the organs in the body. It also enhances the function of the liver, kidneys and intestinal tract. The liver and kidney need to be well-functioning so that the kidney does not refer its role to the liver, causing the liver to be stressed and overworked. In addition to its role in helping to maintain the health of the kidney and liver, red clover is also known to be an appetite suppressant.
Dong quai, also known as Dang Gui or Tang Kuei, contains natural plant estrogens and is commonly used in Chinese herbal medicine for feminine problems. Dong Quai is believed to regulate and balance the menstrual cycle and is said to strengthen the uterus. It is also considered by many to be an antidote for stress as well as for anemia and headaches. However, over usage may cause excessive bleeding as it thins the blood. Furthermore, it may cause the skin to be more sensitive to the sun and therefore, increasing the risk of skin cancer.
Wild Mexican yam has been used for many years. It acts as a building block for estrogen and other steroid hormones. The increased availability of steroid hormones helps to alleviate menopausal symptoms.
Chaste tree berry is a common botanical product that is used for not only relieving symptoms of menopause but also for premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Chaste tree berry is known to relieve symptoms such as headaches and mood swings.
Marine extracts include shellfishes and other marine compounds. Such usage may trigger off allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to marine compounds. It may increase cholesterol levels with excessive use.
