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Menopause:
Alternative Therapies
Black Cohosh
More and more women are
turning to natural remedies to
treat menopausal symptoms.
Many natural remedies are
effective in relieving the
symptoms; however, natural
doesn’t always mean safe.
Because these natural therapies
have varying estrogen-type
effects, women should talk to
their providers before taking
these herbal remedies.
Black cohosh is used to treat hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings
and irritability. Not all forms of black cohosh have been studied; but
one brand, Remifemin®, has been tested in more than 20 clinical trials
and open surveillance studies over the last 40 years. In the most recent
clinical study, Remifemin® reduced the majority of women’s symptoms
by 56 percent in four weeks. Reported side effects have been limited
to mild stomach upset. No drug interactions have been reported, and
Remifemin® has shown to have no effect on hormone levels.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is used to treat hot flashes, vaginal dryness, spotting and
irregular bleeding, and is used to increase energy and fight fatigue.
While some reports claim that this herb relieves various menopausal
symptoms, only a few reports
document the herb’s effectiveness.
Reported side effects are diarrhea,
abdominal bloating and possible
reaction to sunlight (causing rash or
severe sunburn). Dong quai is not
recommended for people with diabetes
or who take blood-thinning drugs.
Additionally, a recent study confirmed
that dong quai, at high doses, could
stimulate growth of breast cancer cells.
Evening Primrose Oil
This herb is used to treat breast pain,
anxiety, depression, hot flashes and night sweats, and it may increase
bone strength. Evening primrose oil contains an essential fatty acid that
is thought to be effective at reducing breast pain and other symptoms
associated with menopause. However, studies to date have had mixed
results. Reported side effects include headaches, indigestion, nausea,
upset stomach and loose bowel movements.
Form #: PEW172008-001
Licorice Root
Soy
Licorice root is used to treat hot flashes. It is believed to
show mild estrogen-type effects. This herb can cause a
rise in blood pressure and should not be used if a person
has diabetes, edema, heart disease, high blood pressure,
kidney disease, glaucoma or a history of stroke. Reported
side effects include headaches, upset stomach, diarrhea,
swelling, weakness, grogginess and shortness of breath.
Daily use for more than seven days in a row can affect the
body’s electrolyte balance, leading to high blood pressure
and edema.
Soy has been used to treat hot flashes, night sweats,
breast tenderness and nausea, and has been used to lower
cholesterol and increase bone density. More research is
needed to test safety and effectiveness of soy to show
any benefit for reducing menopausal symptoms. It is
recommended for heart health benefits. Studies have
confirmed that soy does have estrogen-type effects;
therefore, it is unclear as to whether it is safe for women at
risk for estrogen-type cancers (like breast cancer). Reported
side effects include stomach upset, loose bowel movements
and diarrhea.
Red Clover
This herb is used to treat hot flashes and high blood
pressure. Red clover contains phytoestrogens known as
isoflavones, which are believed to have a weak estrogentype effect that can reduce hot flashes. However, clinical
trials show conflicting reports regarding beneficial effects
on hot flashes or other menopausal symptoms. Studies
have been published citing infertility and abnormal
lactation. The effects of isoflavones on the endometrium
and breast tissue are unknown and a cause for concern.
People taking blood-thinning medications or supplements
should avoid red clover due to an increase risk in bleeding.
Remember, before starting any herbal remedies, talk to
your health care provider.
Sources:
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The North American Menopause Society
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
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PEW172008-001