These herbal extracts that have been found to be helpful for some menopausal symptoms:
- Black cohash (Cimicifuga racemosa) seems to lessen many of the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, by supporting and maintaining hormonal levels. Black cohash does not seem to have any estrogenic activity, and therefore may be safe in some cases with women with a family history of breast cancer.
- Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) has been used for many years in China by perimenopausal women for helping maintain the balance of estrogens and progesterone. It does not seem to have any estrogenic activity however. Dong quai is not recommended for any woman having heavy menstrual bleeding.
- Rhapontic Rhubarb (Rheum rhaponticum L.) root extract is a less well known herb that can be very helpful for many of the common menopausal symptoms, including difficulty sleeping and hot flashes. Caution must be taken by any woman with either a personal history or a family history of estrogen sensitive breast cancer since Rhapontic Rhubarb extract does seem to have estrogenic activity.
- Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa) extract is in many perimenopausal and anti-menstrual cramping herbal formulations. A study (Climacteric. 2001 Jun;4(2):144-50) reporting the use of wild yam for menopausal symptoms showed minimal benefit, though some studies have shown benefits for high blood pressure.
When considering using herbal substances for menopausal symptoms consult with a well-trained health professional who is knowledgeable and experienced in the use of herbal formulations, especially if you are on any over the counter or prescription medications.