Natural Remedies for Menopause

More and more women are turning to natural therapies for menopause as concerns over complications with traditional treatment continue to rise. The good news is that there are many steps a woman can take to relieve or minimize her symptoms and help her get through this phase of life a little more comfortably without the use of drugs.

One of the easiest steps she can take is to make changes in her diet. By simply removing sugar, caffeine, chocolate and refined foods many women can get instant relief from common Menopause symptoms like anxiety, irritability and depression. Replace these foods with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, hormone free meat and healthy fats.

Many women find that supplementing their diet with foods that are rich in natural phytoestrogens (natural substances that are similar to the female hormone - estrogen). The two main types of phytoestrogens include lignans and isoflavones. Lignans can be found in foods like flaxseed, while isoflavones are found in foods like soybeans, peas or chickpeas.

However it's important to keep in mind that not all women respond favorably to phytoestrogens. If you are a women who is estrogen dominant, and many women are, then you want to avoid foods that increase your estrogen levels, because it will only exacerbate your symptoms. I am an estrogen dominant woman and if I ingest flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil or other popular phytoestrogens foods, my estrogen levels go so high I think I may kill someone with the high levels of anxiety and irritability it induces.

Another very popular choice in natural therapies for menopause is the use of supplements. For example, Vitamin E has been reported to provide immediate effects for a variety of menopausal symptoms for many women, however not everyone gets results. It is not understood why some women reap benefits, while others do not, however there's no harm in giving it a try.

The second easiest step you can take to manage your menopause symptoms through natural means is participating in a regular exercise routine. It is extremely effective in reducing the severity and frequency of symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, depression, fatigue, irritability, anxiety and mood swings. Something as simple as a daily walk can be an incredibly strong ally in your management program.

Herbs are another very common choice for natural relief from menopause. Black cohosh, dong quai, licorice, chasteberry, evening primrose oil, and wild yam are some of the most popular.

It's important to remember that even though herbs are natural products they can be very potent and may also interact with prescription drugs. Being an informed consumer who researches the choices thoroughly is always the best route. Always consult with your holistic physician or herbalist before beginning herbal therapy.

Another crucial step for managing Menopause symptoms is stress management. Too much stress will increase the frequency and severity of your symptoms. Exercise, meditation, yoga or other similar activities can be very effective for managing and releasing your daily stress.

Menopause can be very a difficult time for some women, however keep in mind, that it is only temporary. Remind yourself that you won't feel this way forever. It can also be a time when emotions run high and your ability to cope is pushed to the limit, don't be afraid to reach out for help. Finding support through someone like a mental health counselor, holistic health counselor or support group is very beneficial for a lot of women.

Combining emotional support with a variety of natural therapies for Menopause is often much more effective at providing relief than prescription drugs and there are no risks of serious side effects or complications.

About the Author

Cynthia Perkins, M.Ed. is an author and holistic health counselor helping individuals living with chronic illness or chronic pain to live life more fully. Visit her site to learn more about the process of menopause and how to manage debilitating menopause symptoms naturally. http://www.holistichelp.net/menopause-symptoms.html

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