Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) have been proven to treat menopause over time. This is perhaps why close to 10 million women have tried HRT as well as other chemical-based and natural medications. However, this article gives six alternatives that may be just as effective as and perhaps safer than medications.



1. Pro-G Yam Cream Composed of a mixture of around 5 mg of progesterone and wild yam extracts, Pro-G Yam Cream is known to relieve menopause symptoms, such as depression, mood wings, headaches, hot flashes, menstrual cramps and vaginal dryness. The cream is to be applied every day. However, studies are conflicted about wild yam and its estrogen content.

2. Vitamin E and Selenium Vitamin E, in its pure form, provides relief for vaginal dryness and headaches and is excellent for balancing the hormones. When taking Vitamin E, choose products that have Vitamin E's complete set of eight compounds, which have tocotrienols and tocopherols. To further enhance the healing effect of Vitamin E, also take in some selenium.

3. Sarsaparilla This root-bearing vine is a natural diuretic that balances hormones and stimulates progesterone production. In the past it has been used by various tribes to treat headaches. The various plant steroids present in sarsaparilla (when synthesized) can be a potential source of human steroids like testosterone and estrogen. The most common commercial product containing this herb is root beer.

4. Flax Seeds Flax seeds contain fiber and lignans, which lower one's blood cholesterol level. It also contains phytoestrogens which can be used to treat mood swings caused by imbalances of the hormones. Flax seeds work the same way as HRT, which is also known to lower cholesterol levels.

5. Licorice This estrogenic plant or herb (especially the roots) is particularly effective in treating hot flashes. Menopausal women can take it in tea form but not too often as it can cause high blood pressure and can result in low potassium levels. There are also licorice tablets and candies that are sold in health stores.

6. Red Clover This herb (which contains isoflavones) can be used to treat hot flashes. Red Clover is available in supplements, and is often used in salads. While studies on the effectiveness of red clover in treating hot flashes have not been conclusive, experts are in agreement that is does seem to have a mild healing effect. It can also be used for improving bone density and this is good for menopausal women who are at greater risk of developing osteoporosis.

Herbs are great ways of treating menopause. Try to use some of these products in finding relief for the symptoms brought about by menopause. But be sure to ask your doctor before taking anything, as some of the herbs may have contraindications for some other illnesses you may have.