Natural Treatments for Menopause
Are there natural treatments available for menopause...? While menopause is a natural and expected process for every woman, the associated symptoms can be difficult and trying on both physical and emotional levels. Many women are now turning to the use of natural treatments such as herbal and homeopathic remedies to counteract these symptoms and nature has a medicine chest of ingredients that suit this purpose.
Sources of phytoestrogens:- black cohosh - is one such herbal ingredient that is well know for its ability to support estrogen balance in the body and treat a number of menopause related symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness
- wild yam
- dong quai - which works to support the balance of female hormones while treating many of the symptoms related to PMS and menopause
- valerian root
You should tell your doctor about other medicines you are taking, since some plant products can be harmful when combined with other drugs.
How much physical activity should I do...? An active lifestyle can lower your risk of early death from a variety of causes and help you maintain a healthy weight. It also might improve your mood and help you to sleep better. For older adults, activity can improve mental function. Health benefits are gained by doing the following each week: - 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity (nothing says "natural treatments" like a good, brisk walk!)
- or 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity
- or A combination of moderate and vigorous aerobic activity
- and muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days of the week
Tips for coping with menopause...While the symptoms of menopause may leave you feeling desperate and frustrated, rest assured that it is a temporary phase that will pass in time. In the meanwhile there are a few self-care, natural treatments and other tips that you can use to help relieve some of the troublesome symptoms: - Keep hot flashes in mind when dressing each day. Choose loose fitting and breathable clothing, and in cold weather dress in layers that can be quickly removed when you suddenly get hot.
- Avoid any triggers that might prompt a hot flash such as hot drinks, spicy food and stress.
- Make sure you are getting enough sleep. If insomnia is a problem then cut down of caffeine, make sure you get a daily dose of exercise and try a few deep breathing relaxation techniques.
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet with ample fruit, vegetables and fiber. Consider eating smaller meals at more regular intervals to reduce the sensation of lower abdominal bloating.
- Limit you intake of salt and salty foods to reduce bloating and fluid retention.
- Add Omega-3 fatty acids and calcium to your daily supplements if you are not getting enough of these in your diet.
- Stop smoking naturally! Smoking has been linked to the early-onset menopause, greater intensity of menopause symptoms, and the incidence of osteoporosis after menopause.
- Look after yourself. Find a quiet place that you can unwind, relax and come to a place of peace. Whether it is a quiet room in which to meditate, read, pursue a hobby, or simply your bathroom where you can de-“stress” in a hot bath.
Testimonials... Author: Lana Beers 2008-07-05"I recently reconnected with an old friend who I hadn't seen in over 30 years. After chatting for awhile she commented that she is having a tough time with hot flashes and her Hormone Replacement Therapy is not helpful. Since I'm into natural treatments, I suggested putting some peppermint oil on the back of her neck and on her chest area where she was feeling the most warmth. She commented that within 20 minutes her hot flashes were gone! She emailed me the next day telling me that she is able to sleep through the night for the first time in a long time due to the use of the peppermint oil before bedtime." These oils are amazing!"
Author: Debbie Baronian 2007-11-02"I have tried ingesting and applying clary sage, Sclaressence and Dragon Time essential oils and noted their effects on my hot flashes. They have all greatly reduced the intensity of the flashes and the frequencies. I am currently applying to the back of my neck and the clavicle (notch where collarbones meet at base of neck) 1 drop only of Dragon Time morning and evening, and I'm finding this works really well. I may get up to 2 very mild hot flashes a day. I am determined to get my hormones in balance and when progessence and 'Prenolone Plus' become available I will try first one and then the other to see which one helps the best. There are several good oil blends for hormones, so if one doesn't produce the desired effect, just keep trying, testing and energizing your body at the same time."
return to Menopause from "Natural Treatments"
return to Home

|