Menopause is a natural progression of life and not a medical illness. It should be viewed as a freedom instead of as the end. Women who go through menopause no longer have to suffer from the monthly cramps, irritability and bloating that comes with menstruation. They also will no longer have to worry about becoming pregnant.
But menopause does come with a price. A woman going through menopause can suffer from a variety of symptoms and will have to deal with the consequences of the decrease of estrogen and progesterone.
The symptoms of menopause include, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood swings, thinning hair and an increase in abdominal fat. After a woman goes through menopause she is at a greater risk for developing cardiovascular disease. She will also be at a high risk for developing osteoporosis due to the loss of bone density.
Urinary incontinence can become a problem after menopause because the tissues of the vagina and urethra can lose their elasticity. This can result in having sudden urges to urinate or leaking urine when you cough, laugh or if you do any lifting.
Women that are going through menopause can find some relief from menopausal symptoms through the use of specific herbs. Treating these symptoms naturally can reduce your risk of unwanted side effects that come from prescription medications.
Dong Quai is a great herb for treating menopause symptoms. This Chinese herb aids in estrogen replacement and hormone balance. It has been used for centuries to help with hot flashes, painful menstruation and excessive bleeding with menstruation.
Black Cohosh is an herb that was used by the American Indians for the relief of menstrual cramps and menopause. It is a natural precursor to estrogen. In a clinical study, this herb relieved menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, heart palpitations, headaches, vertigo and irritability.
Licorice root has been used for many centuries for treating pre-menstrual syndrome. It’s effect on the adrenal glands and it’s estrogen-like activity are beneficial in controlling menopausal symptoms. But if you have high blood pressure or take a digitalis based drug you should avoid licorice root.
Ginkgo biloba is another herb that is very helpful in combating menopausal symptoms. This herb helps by improving blood flow throughout the body. This will relieve the cold hands and feet that many women suffer from after menopause. Ginkgo biloba is also great for getting rid of the mental fogginess and forgetfulness that women suffer from after menopause. It has been shown to enhance energy production within the brain and it will increase the uptake of glucose cells. This will result in improved transmission of nerve signals within the brain.
Women that are going through menopause should be very diligent about taking good care of themselves. Develop healthy eating habits. Get more exercise and try to lose the excess weight. Menopause is not the end, it is the beginning of a whole new life of freedom.
RESOURCES
Dr Weil: Menopause
Natural News: Natural Menopause Treatment with Herbs, Food Remedies and Homeopathy RElieves Cause of Symptoms
Women to Women: http://www.womentowomen.com/
OM Times: 22 Powerful Healing Herbs for Menopause