Modern day herbalism aims to correct and strengthen the natural bodily functions in healing itself - over the centuries herbal remedies have been handed down through generations, and since the 60s, it has had a renewed popularity and a favourable comparison to drugs of today. Research projects are confirming their true value.Herbal medicines are based on plants, and natural extracts from roots, flowers, bark or a combination of several extracts from various herbs. Certain herbal extracts are known to be effective in relieving menopausal symptoms at the time of hormonal change.

Guidelines whilst taking herbs:

• Use with caution - start with a small dosage
• Discontinue if there are any obvious side effects
• Always seek medical advice if you have an illness or take regular medication
• Be aware that some herbs do not mix well with some medication
• Allow time for herbal remedies to work
• Do not take for prolonged periods

What to try

A herbal combination taken daily designed to aid balance, support, tone, and to soothe feelings of discomfort at the time of hormonal change are Blessed Thistle and Flase Unicorn Root, which help support the muscular skeletal system, soothing cramped muscles.

Use Sarsaparilla for cleansing, squaw vine to ease fluid levels and Siberian Ginseng may help to ease the feeling of mental and physical stress.

Herbal Supplements for Menopause

Black Cohosh (Squaw root) is a member of the buttercup family, used by the Native American Indians - hence square root. It balances female hormones, containing important constituents that reduce the concentration of Litenising Hormones, which in turn decreases the balance of Progesterone in favour of oestrogen; it may well act on oestrogen receptors. It can have a calming effect to the nervous system and be an excellent antiseptic to ease muscle cramps.

Sage (Salvia officinalis) grown in the Mediterranean originally, is now part of the vegetable and herb garden and is used to enhance the taste of food. Sage is known as a phyto oestrogen, although not containing oestrogen it possesses the potential of influencing oestrogen activity in the body. Sage can prevent sweating and combined with increased oestrogen activity can help with hot flushes.

Find out more on menopause supplements here.