A Simple, Effective, and Natural Way to Manage Menopause Symptoms

Many women suffer from various symptoms of menopause, but there's no reason for them to appear with an intensity and frequency that disrupts daily functioning. The previous article detailed the many benefits of a healthy diet at any age, especially at this stage, as well as the importance of a positive outlook and embracing this natural phase of life with love and acceptance.

Healthy nutrition and positive thinking are the mainstays and foundation, to which herbal treatments can also be added. The herb given by the Creator for treating hot flashes is called *Cohosh*, or by its scientific name: Cimicifuga racemosa. It is among the most studied plants in the scientific world, and its effectiveness has been proven in numerous international studies.

*Cohosh* addresses many challenges in the female hormonal system beyond menopause symptoms. It helps balance and regulate the menstrual cycle and promotes fertility. It is also effective for arthritis, which women may suffer from more at this age due to joint wear. The herb also balances high blood pressure, which can result from unhealthy diets but also from mental stress, anxiety, unrest, sadness, or uncertainty. It is also considered a pain reliever and therefore supports childbirth. Additionally, it is effective for treating polycystic ovary syndrome and helps with osteoporosis, which may start at this age.

It has also been proven that *cohosh* helps with depression, a condition that women may experience more acutely during this time. Studies show that using *cohosh* eases the intensity and frequency of hot flashes and reduces related symptoms such as sweating, anxiety, fatigue, and sleep problems.

The herb can be taken over time in low doses, but it's important to conduct liver function tests every few months. Moreover, if you are taking medications that could harm liver function or regularly consume alcohol, it's crucial to consult an expert who can recommend the appropriate dosage and periodic tests. Women suffering from liver diseases or preconditions, gallbladder stagnation, or celiac disease (gluten sensitivity) should avoid using this plant.

Conversely, scientific research shows that the herb is safe to use during estrogen-dependent cancer treatments and even enhances the effectiveness of medications in these cases.

There are several key ways to take this herb and enjoy its many benefits:

1. A dietary supplement named "*Cohosh*", containing the herb. Ensure that the product includes a standardized extract of the herb. It can be purchased in health food stores or online. The recommended dosage is around 40 mg per day or as indicated on the packaging. As previously mentioned, consult with a practitioner or doctor before starting its usage.
2. Consult a naturopath or herbalist (a therapist specializing in herbal medicine) who can prepare a liquid or capsule formula that includes the herb along with other plants tailored to your specific symptoms. This way, the formula is customized for you and your needs, unlike a generic shelf supplement.
3. Request a prescription for Cimidona Cimidona from your family doctor - yes, the Creator has given us a plant with numerous therapeutic qualities. With more research, pharmaceutical companies have discovered the extensive benefits of the plant and have developed a prescription drug from it... The doctor can advise on the appropriate dosage and recommend periodic tests after prolonged use.

Final recommendations: If you are early in menopause and haven't started conventional hormone treatment, please try the natural naturopathic remedy like *cohosh* first. This is a solution given to us by the Creator from nature, and it is advisable to try it before turning to drugs and hormonal treatments which may have numerous side effects.

If you've already started conventional hormone treatment, consult a naturopath who can integrate suitable herbal remedies alongside it to balance the hormonal situation. Then, together with the doctor, you can reduce the hormonal medication dosage over time. You must not stop or reduce the dosage of conventional treatment on your own without consulting your treating doctor. Doing so could have health implications, so any change requires medical supervision. You can switch doctors. If you feel you want to try natural options and your current doctor isn't supportive or attentive, it is your full right to seek medical practitioners more familiar with the latest herb research and aware of research findings.

Best of luck!

Noa Rol is a naturopath specializing in personalized female naturopathy.