Herbs for menopause
I am menopausal (my last period was 18 months ago) and have been suffering from hot flushes and night sweats. I’ve tried several natural remedies, including Agnus castus and Black Cohosh & Yam and these all work well for a few months but then I find myseld back to square one. It is as if I become immune to the effects of these herbs. What else can I do?
Dietary imbalances can cause many of the “symptoms” of menopause warns Kitty Campion, the medical herbalist and author of Menopause Naturally, (Newleaf, £8.99). To eliminate these symptoms, cut out dairy products, meat and salt, caffeine and alcohol.
During menopause, some of the work of the ovaries is taken on by the hormone-controlling adrenal glands and the liver, and both can become overburdened. To support these systems, you should think about taking Dandelion which can help regulate hormones during menopause.
The Chinese herb, Dong Quai will also help by nourishing and replenishing the thinned vaginal and bladder walls. Rich in magnesium, it can also deepen sleep which can otherwise be disturbed by night sweats. Dong Quai can also help protect against menopausal rheumatism.
In your shoes, I would consult a qualified medical herbalist and take the guesswork out of the problem by finding out which herbs you respond best to. Remember, herbs provide the basis or inspiration for many pharmaceutical drugs and combinations of herbs can work for or against each other so get professional advice instead of taking potluck with dosages.
Kitty Campion can be contacted on 0171-722 9270. To find a medical herbalist in your area send a 91/2 x 61/2 40p sae to The National Institute of Medical Herbalists, 56, Longbrook Street, Exeter, Ex4 6AH.