Herbs For Female Menopause
There are a range of benefits in utilizing the therapeutic aspects of herbs for female menopause. This article discusses some of the herbs and their treatments, along with outlining menopause�s causes, stages and symptoms.
OK, so what can herbs for female menopause do?
Menopause, defined briefly, is the final menstrual period in a woman�s life. It denotes the end of her reproductive years in a similar way that the first menstrual period marked the start. As women begin to approach menopause, the production of hormones such as estrogen in their ovaries starts to slow down - ultimately to a point where menstrual periods cease altogether. During menopause women may suffer symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings.
Herbal treatments from naturally occurring plants can dramatically reduce menopause symptoms and prevent diseases caused by the loss of estrogen in the body. This is because herbs can be very effective in the prevention of illness, the improvement of symptoms or the treatment of mild problems. Remember though - if you intend to use menopause herbs to complement your medical regimen, be sure to inform your medical practitioner.
Types of herbs for female menopause
Of these herbs for treating female menopause, there are two major types; phytoestrogenic and non-estrogenic herbs. The former group contains phytohormones (compounds comparable to the body�s hormones), while the latter group
helps to stimulate the body�s own hormonal production.
Phytoestrogenic herbs
Phytoestrogenic herbs for female menopause are plants that contain phytoestrogens, which have chemical structures similar to human estrogen.
A very important herb used for female hormone balance is Chasteberry. Chasteberry works on the pituitary gland and has a balancing effect on the hormones, which is why it is such an important herb for menopause symptoms. It has historically been used to maintain a healthy menstrual cycle by assisting with restoring a normal estrogen-to-progesterone balance. It is specifically used to assist the body to secrete progesterone.
There are several herbs which have sources of phytoestrogens (often available in supplement format) which often help people who are suffering from hormone related ailments, mimicking the body�s own source of the estrogen hormone. Phytoestrogens appear in large doses in herbs such as black cohosh, chasteberry, ginseng, soy, red clover and dong quai.
Non estrogenic herbs
Non-estrogenic herbs do not have a chemical structure similar to estrogen. They work by stimulating the body�s endocrine system into producing more hormones on its own. Some examples of non-estrogenic herb treatments can be found at this link.
What herbs for female menopause symptoms should I use?
One of the best things about herbs for female menopause is that they often do not have unwanted side effects (though each treatment must be taken on its merits) and much research confirms their therapeutic applications in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Herbs can be used to treat menopause symptoms and to promote general well-being.
