Menopause is a natural process that occurs when a woman's body stops producing eggs, signaling an end to her reproductive years. The female hormones known as estrogen and progesterone are often reduced during this period of life, leading to symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. Some natural remedies for menopause include dietary and lifestyle changes, natural hormonal creams, and the use of herbal remedies aimed at treating individual symptoms.
Stress is known to aggravate some of the symptoms of menopause, especially the irritability and mood swings that often occur as a result of hormonal changes. Relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga often help the patient deal with stressful situations in a more positive manner. Some women like to treat themselves to spa days or massage therapy as a means to relax and escape everyday stresses during this time of transition.
Lifestyle changes may help to reduce the number of hot flashes, one of the most troublesome symptoms of menopause. Many patients forget about the benefits of lifestyle modification when considering natural remedies for menopause. Avoiding hot showers or baths just before bed often helps to prevent hot flashes. Drinking a cold glass of water before retiring for the night may prove to be beneficial as well. Some women like to wear several layers of clothing, making it possible to remove layers as necessary when the hot flashes hit.
Natural progesterone creams are thought to be a life-saver for many women who prefer natural remedies for menopause. These creams use natural ingredients instead of synthetic, man-made substitutes. The use of natural progesterone creams has been found to reduce hot flashes in many menopausal women, and these creams are available by prescription or over the counter.
The use of herbs is rapidly becoming one of the most popular natural remedies for menopause. It is important to consult a doctor before beginning any type of herbal treatment, as some herbs may interfere with the effectiveness of other medications. Herbal therapy is used to treat individual symptoms of menopause, so it is often helpful to consult an herbalist for help in developing an individualized treatment plan.
Black cohosh is a popular herb used for reducing hot flashes and night sweats. Some women report side effects such as stomach discomfort and nausea when using this herb. Red clover may be a more appropriate choice for these women. Other herbs frequently used as natural remedies for menopause include dong quai, licorice, and gingko biloba.