Whether you're the one suffering from hot flashes, night sweats and rapid mood swings that make menopause so fun or it's someone you're close to, there's one thing for sure - we can all benefit from these 5 ways to master menopause naturally.
1. Black Cohosh. This is the Grandmammy of
herbal remedies for menopause symptoms. It's been used for 'womanly ailments' since the 50's and continues to bring women relief from hot flashes and even PMS cramps and irritability. In Germany it's prescribed but here you can just pick it up in capsule or tincture format, or you can buy the whole root and brew up your own tea.
2. Chasteberry. Never heard of it? This bush fruit grows in the Mediterranean and has been used
since ancient times for a variety of ailments. These days it’s most commonly used to alleviate hot flashes and to help normalize hormone levels in peri and menopausal women. Specifically, it has been found to stimulate progesterone production - something that slows down as the body prepares for menopause. Don't go looking for it in the produce section - you'll likely find it as a tincture.
3. Meditation. Steady your menopausal rant, we're not about to suggest that it's all mind over menopause. However, studies have found that
meditation does help reduce stress, balance hormones and smooths out those mood swings. Meditators also enjoy better sleep and handle their emotions better - so when that hot flash hits, you'll be rested and cool as a cucumber (mentally, anyway).
4. Acupuncture. Channeling your chi can work wonders on your menopause symptoms. Studies have found that a qualified practitioner can help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. Regular acupuncture treatments may also help with other symptoms like insomnia, stress, mood swings and anxiety. Looks like it might be time to give those symptoms the needle.
5. Exercise. Is there any fixit list where exercise doesn't belong? Nope. Regular exercise, like
30 minutes of cardio a day, helps balance your hormones during menopause plus it improves your mood, decreases stress and helps you sleep (insomnia is a common symptom). On top of that, exercise will keep those bones strong since post-menopausal women need to think about battling osteoporosis. Need one more push out the door for a run? Weight gain is another symptom of perimenopause, which can lead to other medical issues. Lace 'em up, ladies.
We may not be able to avoid menopause but we can meet those symptoms head on with these natural solutions. We are women, hear us roar (with total control).
Please consult with your medical professional about any alternative therapies you're interested in adopting.
