Menopause is a powerful time in a woman’s life and can be full of physical and emotional changes. Many women experience a smooth transition and need minimal support. For others it is more challenging and herbs can help.

Chaste Tree reduces elevated prolactin levels, thus positively affecting estrogen and FSH levels. It works via the pituitary and HPA axis, and has been found to bind to opiate receptors in the brain, reducing irritability, agitation and insomnia.

Dang gui and black cohosh have traditionally been used to treat menopausal discomforts including hot flashes, muscle pain and depression. Black cohosh has been shown in numerous human trials to modestly reduce climacteric symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia and anxiety. In animal studies, dang gui had estrogenic activity and it reduced serum LH levels. Dang gui also enhances cardiac, bowel and liver function.

Night blooming cereus and blue vervain help relieve psychological symptoms of menopause including anxiety and depression. David Winston’s herbal formulation Women’s Transition Compound(TM) contains these herbs.

Additional useful formulas for women experiencing menopausal transition include:

• Osteoherb(TM) enhances bone health and helps prevent osteopenia and osteoporosis

• Replenish Compound(TM) is an oral formula containing yin tonics that enhance vaginal lubrication in peri-menopausal and menopausal women

• Women’s Calmpound(TM) addresses menopausal anxiety and depression, especially if associated with hot flashes, “skin-crawling” and palpitations
  
  Each of these carefully curated formulas are available in the products section at www.herbalist-alchemist.com.
  
  Additional suggestions to reduce menopausal symptoms include a diet rich in: isoflavones and lignans (phyto-estrogens) like soy (miso, tempeh, tofu)

  beans (legumes), peas, lentils, flax seed, alfalfa sprouts, etc.

  Whole grains, nuts and seeds, and dark leafy vegetables are also beneficial.

  Important nutrients include vitamin E, omega 3 fatty acids (fish oil), B Complex vitamins – especially folate, B6 and B12, as well as the essential minerals calcium, magnesium, chromium and zinc.
  
  This blog is intended as an informational guide. The remedies, approaches and techniques described herein are meant to supplement, and not be a substitute for professional medical care or treatment. They should not be used to treat a serious ailment without prior consultation with a qualified health care professional.

  “A special thank you to David Winston, RH and his team for their gracious permission to re-share this invaluable information.” original post can be found here