Herbal Remedies for Perimenopausal Symptoms

Perimenopause describes the early stages of menopause, which can begin as early as ten to fifteen years before menses stop for good. Symptoms of perimenopause include loss of sexual desire, sleep problems, hot flashes, headaches, hair loss, weight gain and irregular periods. Traditional menopause and perimenopause treatments, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can often have dangerous side effects. Natural remedies can be helpful in relieving these symptoms without harmful side effects.

Soy

• Soy products are very rich in phytoestrogens, substances which are very similar to the estrogen already produced by the ovaries. During perimenopause, estrogen levels tend to drop, leading to many of the symptoms women commonly experience. Soy is great because the options for how to eat it are endless. Tofu, soy cheese, soy milk, soy burgers and bread made from soy flour are all great options for keeping perimenopausal symptoms at bay.

Black Cohosh

• Black cohosh is a plant found in North America, also called bugbane, rattleroot and black snakeroot. It is believed to contain phytoestrogens and can be used to treat a range of physical problems, including gynecologic ailments and menopause symptoms. Black cohosh can be taken in pill form and if used short term, can provide relief from the hot flashes, mood swings, depression and anxiety that come with menopause.

Maca

• Maca is a root found in Peru which is believed to stimulate the body's production of estrogen and testosterone. Maca root is said to be effective in relieving hot flashes, depression, mood swings, fatigue, breast tenderness, sleep disturbances and other symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. This root is also used to treat the symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome.

Other Herbs

• There are several other herbs which can aid in perimenopause symptom relief. Sometimes symptoms of menopause and perimenopause are unique to the person experiencing them. Below are four additional herbal treatments and the symptoms they can treat specifically.
  Sepia is great for alleviating anxiety and irritability. Belladonna is great for relieving hot flashes which seem to come on suddenly and pass suddenly. Ferrum phosphoricum can be used to relieve hot flashes when they are accompanied by facial flushing. Another herb, sanguinarina can provide relief for hot flashes in the face and neck.