Midlife Motivation

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Herbs to help with Menopausal symptoms

Herbs, whole plants and plant extracts have been used for thousands of years by our herbalist ancestors. The idea behind using herbs and health foods is more about gently balancing the body in order for it to heal itself holistically. 

Herbalism is the opposite to synthetic modern drugs specifically aimed at curing a particular symptom of ill health, though, of course, many of us rely on the combination the two. Herbs infused with water (herb tea) is the most popular way of taking herbs which can also be taken as a tonic.

Herbs that can help with the effects of the menopause are motherwort, false unicorn root, peony, hops, sage, alfalfa, st John's wort, wild yam, vervain, elderflower, beth root and scullcap.

Key herbs such as Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis), Chaste Berry (Vitex agnus-castus), Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) and Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) are particularly popular for symptoms of the menopause.

On a personal note, I dabbled and eventually found myself taking a cocktail of evening primrose, star flower oil, black cohosh along with my prescribed anti depressants, and I felt dreadful. I could have saved myself years of ill health by just getting the right advice from the experts.

So please, don't just read what's on the bottle, take some time out for yourself and go talk to the professionals.

Susan Loveday - Editor

Depending on individual symptoms these herbs can help with enhancing energy, irregular periods, excessive uterine bleeding, PMS, depression, aid sleep, decrease hot flushes and night sweats, vaginal dryness and mood swings.

Rather than dipping in and dabbling, the best advice is to visit a certified Herbalist or practitioner of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  They will take into account all your symptoms along with any prescribed medicines that you are taking before suggesting a regime of herbs specifically aimed at your particular condition.

Most herbalists are also very good at giving good dietary advice to get you on the right track.

To search for a herbalist near you, check out the National Institute of Medical Herbalists in Related Links below.  Also see other useful links.

Tags: Herbalism, holistic, hot flushes, menopause, mood swings, night sweats, vaginal dryness