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Alternative Medicines for Menopause

Women who are going through menopause may be leery of taking hormones. Instead, they often seek alternative medical approaches to prescription drugs. Alternative medicines for menopause focus on non-drug therapies that encourage the body to balance, regulate and normalize itself while undergoing the transition to menopause.

  1. Phytoestrogens

    • According the Mayo Clinic, women who follow diets that are high in phytoestrogens have fewer menopausal symptoms, as well as lower incidence of osteoporosis and heart disease. Phytoestrogens are estrogens, and certain foods contain phytoestrogens, more specifically two types of phytoestrogens: lignans and isoflavins. Lignans are found in whole grains, flaxseed and some fruits and vegetables. Isoflavins are found in chickpeas, soybeans and other legumes.

    Black Cohosh

    • Some women in Europe supplement their diets with black cohash to fend off the symptoms of menopause, specifically hot flashes. Black cohash is an herb that is reported to help with body temperature fluxuations, mood swings and night sweats. The herb is becoming more popular among menopausal women in the United States. The Mayo Clinic reports that black cohosh is safe to consume.

    Vitamin E

    • Although scientific studies have not verified that Vitamin E is a viable medicinal alternative to combat menopausal symptoms, the Mayo Clinic does report that it can bring relief to menopausal women who are suffering from hot flashes. They caution, however, that daily dosages of more than 400 international units basis can be dangerous.

    Acupuncture and Acupressure

    • Holistic Online reports that acupuncture and acupressure can go far in relieving the symptoms of menopause. Acupuncture rechannels energy. The treatments stimulate pain-relieving endorphins and encourage the body to come into balance and health on its own. Holistic Online reports that acupuncture rebalances the hormonal system and relieves the hot flashes, quells the headaches and even repairs the skin tone of women who are going through menopause. They cite a Swedish study that demonstrated that women undergoing acupuncture reduced the symptoms of menopause for up to 3 months.

    Considerations

    • Women going through menopause should consult their physicians before beginning herbal treatments or taking supplements. Some products may interact with pre-existing medical conditions, as well as aggravate the side effects of prescription medications.

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