Natural Herbal Remedies for Menopause

The U.S. National Library of Medicine defines menopause, or the change of life, as a natural phase in a women's life when her ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone, and she ceases to menstruate. Menopause usually begins around the age of 45 or 50 in most women. Symptoms of menopause include hot flashes or night sweats, sleeping difficulties, vaginal dryness, mood swings, trouble concentrating and facial hair growth. At this time of life, women's risk for heart disease, osteoporosis or breast cancer increase. Besides hormone replacement therapy, women can include natural herbal remedies for menopause.

Black Cohosh

• Dr. Andrew Weil, founder of the University of Arizona Center of Integrative Medicine, says that black cohosh decreases hot flashes and helps maintain hormone levels. Dr. Weil states that women who have used this natural herbal remedy for menopause do not report any negative side effects from using black cohosh and appears safe for women with breast cancer risks. Women can take this natural herbal remedy twice a day for up to six months.

Maca Root

• Epigee Pregnancy and Women's Health states that people have used the South American Maca root for sexual health for centuries. The root, rich in Vitamins B1, B2, B12, C and E, zinc, calcium and magnesium, balances estrogen and progesterone levels in women. Epigee says that Maca roots help vaginal dryness and hot flashes and improves memory and osteoporosis. Women can boil Maca root and drink it as a tea.

Dong Quai

• Dr. Weil says that Dong Quai helps women control hormone levels during menopause. Epigee states that Dong Quai, which contains Vitamins E, A and B12, also dilates blood vessels, increasing blood circulation and preventing heart disease. This natural herbal remedy for menopause relieves stress and manages mood swings. Women steep this herb and drink it as a tea. Dr. Weil says that, because Dong Quai dilates blood vessels, women with heavy bleeding should avoid this herbal remedy.