|  | Family Health | Womens Health

Herbs for Premenopause

Premenopause is the period of time that precedes the complete cessation of the menstrual cycle. This condition can last anywhere from several months to 10 years and officially transitions into menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period. Decreased production of estrogen and other hormones trigger this process. Several herbal therapies might help ease symptoms, which include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, irritability, decreased sex drive and fatigue.

  1. Blach Cohosh

    • Alternative medicine expert Dr. Andrew Weil states black cohosh is one of the most extensively studied herbs for treating symptoms of this condition. It is best known for its ability to alleviate hot flashes. Beneficial actions stem from its ability to support and maintain hormone levels. Black cohosh exhibits the same actions as estrogen without the negative side effects of conventional hormone replacement therapies. While it does not appear to mimic estrogen in any way, women who have or are at risk for hormone-related cancers should not used this herb without consulting with a knowledgeable health-care provider. Suggested dosage is 20 mg twice a day.

    Dong Quai

    • This herb has a long history of use in Chinese medicine for addressing female hormonal imbalances. It does not have any estrogen-like activity but like black cohosh, consult with a practitioner before using to determine dosage and if it is an appropriate treatment for you. Dong quai is not appropriate for women who have heavy bleeding.

    Maca

    • According to alternative medicine expert Dr. Ray Sahelian, maca root might ease certain symptoms like anxiety and improve diminished sex drive. A small number of studies have been done and women who took 3.5 grams daily for six weeks experienced a reduction in psychological symptoms and reported better sexual function. It does not appear to interfere with hormonal function in any way; check with your doctor before using. Possible side effects include insomnia and overstimulation.

    Other Herbs

    • The University of Maryland lists several supplements on their website that are traditionally used for this condition. Studies are either lacking or have produced mixed results. They include sage, red clover, Asian ginseng and kudzu.

Womens Health - Related Articles