Menopause by Wendy Green

Author:Wendy Green
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Summerdale
Published: 2011-07-26T00:00:00+00:00

Agnus castus

Agnus castus is derived from the berries of the chaste tree, a shrub native to West Asia and south-western Europe, which was introduced to English gardens in the sixteenth century. It has long been used to relieve PMT and menopausal symptoms. It’s claimed to balance female hormones by stimulating the pituitary gland, which produces and sets hormone level, helping to combat flushes and night sweats. However, there doesn’t seem to be any clear evidence regarding the benefits of its use.

Black cohosh

Black cohosh is a member of the buttercup family that grows in North America, where it’s widely used by native Americans to treat gynaecological problems. It’s believed to have oestrogenic properties and to be particularly effective for the treatment of hot flushes and depression.

Several studies suggest that black cohosh can reduce hot flushes and night sweats. Some link its effects to its oestrogenic actions, others to its ability to lower Luteinizing hormone levels, which rise at menopause. One US study suggests it influences body temperature by targeting serotonin receptors. In Germany, the Commission E, an expert committee set up to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of herbal remedies, recommends taking black cohosh for menopausal symptoms for six months.

The evidence is far from conclusive, but there has been some controversy about the long-term safety of black cohosh, because of claims of a possible link with liver problems. As a precaution, you should perhaps avoid use if you suffer from liver disease, or if you notice any signs of liver damage (tiredness, loss of appetite, yellowing of skin and eyes, stomach pain with nausea and vomiting, dark urine). You should also check with your GP or pharmacist before taking black cohosh if you take a prescribed medication, such as amiodarone or carbamazepine, which could have a toxic effect on the liver when taken in combination with the black cohosh.

Dong quai

Dong quai is a herb native to China, where it’s widely used for gynaecological problems and as a female tonic. It’s claimed to reduce hot flushes and vaginal dryness and improve mood, but there’s little clinical evidence of its effectiveness. Traditional Chinese herbalists argue that the dong quai works synergistically, so it’s more effective when combined with other herbs.

Dong quai can increase the tendency to bleed, so avoid using it with anti-coagulant drugs. It can also increase sensitivity to sunlight and affect the actions of some drugs, e.g. antidepressants and corticosteroids.

Evening primrose oil

Evening primrose oil is often recommended for reducing hot flushes, night sweats and other menopausal symptoms. It’s rich in omega-6 fatty acids, which are vital for various processes in the body, including reproduction. There’s little evidence that it helps hot flushes during the day, but some suggesting it can cut night sweats. However, one study showed it was no better than a placebo for the relief of flushes and night sweats. It takes up to three months to notice any benefits – if you see no reduction in your symptoms by then you may wish to stop using it, though it appears to be safe when taken as recommended.

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