menstruation > menopause-the-natural-solutions

Agnus Castus is a great hormone balancer. It works best taken first thing in the morning, every morning. It stimulates the pituitary gland which is in charge of producing and setting hormone levels.

Black Cohosh is a popular Native American herb that is very effective for restoring hormone balance. I find it is particularly useful in the treatment of hot flushes.

Dong Quai is an herb which is often used in traditional Chinese Medicine as a tonic for the female reproductive system. During premenopausal phases, less active versions of female hormones are produced in the body e.g. oestrone instead of oestrogen. Dong Quai is believed to work by increasing the effects of these naturally produced hormones.

New research suggests that Dong Quai also contains phytoestrogens, so will also work to boost oestrogen levels and achieve a balance. Dong Quai has proven to be most effective for relieving symptoms of the menopause, in particular hot flushes as well as vaginal dryness.

Supplements

Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) If you suffer from dry skin and hair, aching joints, breast pain and difficulty losing weight, you could be lacking in Essential Fatty Acids. Supplement with Evening Primrose Oil and fish oils to make sure you are getting enough of both Omega 3 and Omega 6. Essential fats have also been shown to help relieve symptoms of vaginal dryness.
Vitamin E has been studied for many years for its ability to help reduce hot flushes. It is also beneficial for vaginal dryness and is a protective antioxidant that keeps skin healthy and supple.
B Vitamins. When the ovaries begin to slowly produce less oestrogen, the adrenal glands are called on to start producing a form of oestrogen to counteract this. Supporting adrenal function is therefore vital. The B vitamins (and vitamin B5 in particular) are renowned for their ability to relieve stress and support the adrenals. B vitamins also help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, low energy levels and poor concentration that are often associated with the menopause.

“HRT is not the only solution to the menopause...”

HRT is not the only solution to the menopause, and menopausal symptoms. There are many natural effective alternatives, detailed above that can really help to ease the emotional and physical discomfort associated with this time of life. The menopause is a transitional phase after all and eventually your body will rebalance allowing you to get on with your life and enjoy the wisdom and experience of your years.

Osteoporosis is usually a symptom of advancing age, but it can also be a consequence of the menopause. Oestrogen protects the bones by keeping calcium in the bones and thereby maintaining bone density. During and after the menopause, when oestrogen levels are reduced, bone density decreases at a more rapid rate.

Try supplementing with Calcium, Magnesium and Vitamin D, which are all important nutrients for maintaining strong healthy bones.

(published with permission in writing from:http://weblog.healthydirect.co.uk)