Many women who have chosen to go through menopause naturally (without the use of HRT) turn to herbal remedies. I’ve used herbs for my health for over half a century for various health issues with good results.
It is important to do your research and consult a professional herbalist and in coordination with your health care practitioner when taking any herbs. Herbal remedies can be supportive to your body especially during the Menopause years.
So let’s explore various remedies for relief from hot flashes and night sweats. If you decide to try an herbal remedy, make sure you understand the potential health risks and interactions with other medications you may be taking.
• Black cohosh is the most widely studied of the herbal remedies. The studies have produced mixed results, although some women report black cohosh has helped them. Black cohosh also interacts with many prescribed medications and should not be used at the same time as other herbs.
• Red clover has had no consistent or conclusive evidence in controlled studies that it was found to reduce hot flashes. As with black cohosh, some women claim that red clover has helped them. This is proof to me that we are all bio-individuals and our bodies can and will respond differently to various herbs as well as medications. Studies report few side effects and no serious health problems with use. I often wildcraft this herb in the summer time with its beautiful purple flowers. I dry them and incorporate into tea blends.
• Valerian Root contains phytoestrogens, and a small study found it to be effective in reducing the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. However, phytoestrogens are controversial, and researchers recommend additional research to confirm the safety and effectiveness of phytoestrogen-based herbal remedies. Valerian is also believed to help with sleep. This herb grows well in my garden and loves to reseed itself. Harvesting the roots to make tinctures is one of my favorite late fall activities in the garden.
Recipe for Hot Flash Ease Tea
Ingredients:
1/3 cup dried Clover herb
1/3 cup dried Motherwort herb
1/3 cup dried Red Raspberry leaf
1/3 cup dried Oatstraw herb
1 Tablespoon dried Rose Petals
1 Tablespoon dried Rosehips
1 Tablespoon dried Orange Peel
Directions:
Mix well and store in a glass container in a dark cool place.
Use 2 teaspoons in a tea ball with 8 oz. hot water. Steep 2-3 minutes.
