Natural relief for menopause: the power of herbs

 Menopause is a natural phase in every woman’s life, but the symptoms—ranging from hot flashes to mood swings—can be disruptive and uncomfortable. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) remains a conventional option, many women are turning to natural alternatives to support their bodies through this transition. Herbs like wild yam root, dong quai, red clover, and raspberry leaf have long been used in traditional medicine and are gaining recognition for their ability to ease menopausal symptoms gently and naturally.

1. Wild Yam Root: A Natural Hormonal Supporter

 Wild yam root ( Dioscorea villosa ) has been used traditionally to support women’s reproductive health. It contains compounds that the body can convert into steroid-like substances, which may help balance Estrogen levels during menopause.

Benefits:

• May reduce hot flashes and night sweats

• Supports hormonal balance

• Helps ease menstrual-like cramping in perimenopause

While wild yam root does not contain actual hormones, it is often used in natural formulations aimed at supporting the endocrine system.

2. Dong Quai: The “Female Ginseng”

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a powerful herb from traditional Chinese medicine, often called the “female ginseng” due to its energizing effects on the reproductive system. It is commonly used to regulate menstrual cycles and ease menopausal symptoms.

Benefits:

May relieve hot flashes and vaginal dryness

Supports circulation and overall vitality

Helps balance estrogen levels naturally

Dong quai is often blended with other herbs to create synergistic effects, enhancing its hormone-balancing potential.

3. Red Clover: Rich in Plant-Based Estrogens

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a nutrient-rich herb high in isoflavones, which are plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. This makes red clover a popular choice for managing symptoms linked to declining estrogen levels.

 Benefits:

• May reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes

• Supports bone density

• Promotes cardiovascular health in postmenopausal women

Its gentle, estrogen-like effects make red clover an ideal herb for women seeking a more natural approach to hormone support.

4. Raspberry Leaf: Uterine Tonic and Hormonal Support

 Often used during pregnancy to tone the uterus, raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) is also valuable during perimenopause and menopause. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals that nourish the reproductive system.

Benefits:

• Helps tone and support the uterus

• May reduce menstrual irregularities during perimenopause

• Provides gentle relief for bloating and mood swings

Raspberry leaf is commonly enjoyed as a tea and is prized for its gentle yet effective action.

Note: Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new herbal regimen, especially if you are taking medications or have underlying health conditions.

If you you would like advice with menopause or perimenopause symptoms, ask in-store to see how we can help you. 

By Ruth Wallace, proprietor of the Health Defence Organics shop

References:

• Salehi, B., et al. (2019). Dioscorea plants: A review of bioactive constituents and potential uses. Phytotherapy Research, 33(10), 2549-2570. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.6432

• Low Dog, T. (2005). Menopause: A Review of Botanical Dietary Supplements. American Journal of Medicine, 118(12B), 98–108. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.amjmed.2005.09.038

• Tice, J.A., et al. (2003). Phytoestrogen supplements for menopausal women: A systematic review. Annals of Internal Medicine, 138(10), 805–813. https://doi.org/10.7326/0003-4819-138-10-200305200-00011

• Atkinson, C., et al. (2004). Red clover extract does not affect estradiol levels or endometrial thickness in postmenopausal women: A randomized trial. Menopause, 11(4), 456-462. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.GME.0000109210.86301.E6

• Holst, L., et al. (2009). Raspberry leaf – should it be recommended to pregnant women?. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 15(4), 204–208. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2009.06.002

• Johnson, T. (2018). Herbal and dietary supplement use in gynecologic and obstetric practice. Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinics of North America, 45(3), 559–576.