Menopause, the termination of menstruation, occurs when the ovaries’ production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone greatly decreases. This dwindling hormone supply can occur suddenly or it can take several months.
Pre-Disposing Factors:
1. Hormonal imbalance
2. Surgical removal of the ovaries
3. Factors for Hot Flashes
Iodine deficiency
Excess refined carbohydrate, alcohol or caffeine
Obesity and/or lack of exercise
Excess hydrogenated fats and oils
Food allergy/sensitivity
Supplements that may help:
Supplements
Property of Supplements
|
Black Cohosh, Aloe vera |
Useful for hot flashes, headaches, muscle pain, vaginal dryness Relieves vaginal dryness |
|
Dang gui |
Acts as a phytoestrogen, calms spasms |
|
Vitex |
To stabilize hormone fluctuations, hot flashes, sensation of movement in the skin, dizziness, and depression |
|
Red raspberry |
Strengthens the uterus, decreases excess menstrual flow and increases deficient flow |
|
Essential fatty acids such as Primrose oil, Flax seed oil, Black currant seed oil |
Help the body control cholesterol and digest other fats. May protect against heart disease and cancer. Act as sedatives and diuretics. Good for hot flashes. |
References:
Menopause Naturally A Holistic Guide to
a Smooth Transition by Kathleen Fry MD, and Claudia Wingo RN, Medical Herbalist.
Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine by
Michael Murray, N.D., and Joseph Pizzorno, N.D.
The Herbal Drugstore by Linda B. White,
M.D., and Steven Foster
Prescription for Nutritional Healing by
Phyllis A. Balch, CNC and James F. Balch, M.D.
The Nutritional Protocol Manual, Dolores
S. Downey Managing Editor