Top 5 Natural Remedies For Menopause Symptoms
The 8-10 years leading up to menopause can throw you into a tailspin if you don’t know what’s happening. Known as perimenopause, this period of life can be challenging, due to hormonal imbalances. However, it’s important to remember that menopause is an entirely natural process. Women are meant to experience a drop in estrogen at this stage in life. Unfortunately, just because it is a natural life process, doesn’t mean the symptoms are always pleasant. In fact, for some women, the abrupt hormone level change can lead to symptoms that are uncomfortable, embarrassing, or even frightening. Luckily, there are natural remedies for menopause that can make this natural process a bit more comfortable. Here are five natural remedies for menopause symptoms.
GABA Oolong Tea Leaves
GABA Oolong tea leaves contain gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA is a neurotransmitter that is naturally made in the body. GABA is widely known to produce a calming effect in the body by blocking certain signals from reaching the brain. GABA helps to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, which can also help promote better sleep. GABA is approved by the FDA for use as a supplement.
Organic Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is widely recommended as a treatment for hot flashes that many women experience in the years before menopause. It is derived from a perennial North American plant of the buttercup species. The root of the plant in particular has been used for years to help minimize hot flashes. Black Cohosh is safe, without adverse side effects. Likewise, it is unlikely to interact with other medications you may be taking but check with your health care provider first.
Organic Echinacea
Echinacea, also known as coneflowers, are flowering plants that are native to North America. Echinacea is a powerful antioxidant that helps to fight off free radicals. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory, and recent studies confirm that echinacea plants contain compounds that may help to reduce anxiety. Anxiety, like hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, brain fog, insomnia, and weight gain are all symptoms of perimenopause. Echinacea is unlikely to interact with other medications, but you should confirm with your healthcare provider.
Organic Wild Yam
Wild yam is a vine that grows naturally in North America. The roots of wild yam have been used as an herbal remedy for myriad issues since the 1700s. Wild yam can help with symptoms of menopause as it contains a natural plant steroid called diosgenin. This steroid is believed to help regulate estrogen levels, which can alleviate or mitigate some symptoms of menopause.
Lifestyle Changes
Making changes to your lifestyle can also help to naturally reduce some of the symptoms of menopause. Tips for minimizing menopause symptoms include:
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Get Regular Exercise
Exercise is known to help improve mood, improve sleep, and stimulate healthy brain function. Find an exercise you love, and create a routine.
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Quit Smoking
Smoking has been shown to make hot flashes more intense. So, quitting smoking should be a priority.
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Reduce Stress
Stress can wreak havoc on your health. So, while your body is adjusting to hormonal changes, it’s more important than ever to keep stress at a minimum. Practice mindful meditation, yoga, or simply find a calming activity (painting, a walk in nature, reading, etc.) to help manage stress.
