Natural Alternatives To Hormones

• Natural Progesterone.

The oral form has been widely used in Europe for many years with good results. One brand will soon be available in Canada under the trade name prometrium. Meanwhile, women who have their drugs covered by insurance can get a prescription from their family doctor for the oral capsules or vaginal suppositories, which can be made up by specialized pharmacies.

The skin cream, known by the brand name of Pro-Gest, and available without a prescription, may prevent bone loss and protect the uterus from cancer. Dr. John Lee, a clinical instructor at the University of California Medical School, found he could reverse bone loss and, furthermore, could control hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms using this cream alone. The cream may also improve sex drive and if applied vaginally, may help dry vagina. More studies on this cream are needed.

• Natural Estrogen.

These are estrogens derived from plant sources such as soybeans and licorice root extract.

Some contain a higher ratio of estriol or estriol alone. Estriol is a form of estrogen that is thought to be more protective of breast cancer than other forms of estrogen. Natural estrogen is available in capsule form, vaginal cream and skin cream through specialized pharmacies. Some experts advise that natural progesterone should be taken along with these estrogens. Natural estrogens may be helpful for women with severe hot flashes or vaginal dryness that does not respond to other natural treatments. It may also be important for premature menopause or women who experience surgical menopause.

• Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine.

The twelve energy pathways of the body are balanced with acupuncture needles, and herbs. Many women have had excellent relief of menopausal symptoms when they receive acupuncture and Chinese herbal treatments from an experienced practitioner.

• Female Tonics.

VITEX AGNUS CASTUS: Also known has chaste tree, this slow acting tonic for the female system reduces hot flashes and dizziness, strengthens vaginal tissues, and decreases nervousness. The usual dosage is twenty drops of the tincture twice a day for three to six months at a time.

DONG QUAI: This root is famed in Chinese medicine for its affinity for the female constitution. It contains many natural plant estrogens and balances the amount of estrogen in the body. Take two capsules two or three times a day with meals. As a herbal tincture, use ten drops in one-quarter cup of water three times a day. Herbalist Susun Weed author of MENOPAUSAL YEARS; THE WISE WOMAN WAY, suggests taking dong quai for four weeks, followed by ginseng for two weeks and repeating this cycle for two years or as long as necessary.

GINSENG: Panax ginseng, either Oriental or North American, will increase energy levels and metabolic rate, stimulate the immune system, and help normalize body functions. It goes well with vitamin-E. It works well for hot flashes, as well as stress, and mental and physical fatigue. Try to find high quality ginseng in capsule or liquid form. It is not recommended for those who are anxious, or have insomnia or high blood pressure. Siberian ginseng, which belongs to a different family, also stimulates the immune system and protects against aging effects.

HOMEOPATHY: There are several excellent homeopathic combination remedies for menopause, available at pharmacies and health food stores. If possible, obtain specific individualized remedies from a homeopathic doctor.

GLANDULARS: Often women go into menopause with their adrenal glands very stressed. In such cases, adrenal glandular extracts can be very helpful. In addition ovarian and uterine glandulars can help support the reproductive system through this transition.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE: Avoid smoking and excess alcohol, which not only worsen menopausal symptoms, but also accelerate aging. Avoid caffeine, sugar, sugar substitutes, and junk food.