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Menopause and Phytooestrogens Article

Herbs for the Menopause and the Role of Phyto-oestrogens

What is the menopause?

This is the time in a woman’s life when her periods stop, usually between the ages of 48 to 54 for most women. Periods may become less frequent over a long period of time and there may be a range of accompanying symptoms. Some of these symptoms may be due to the decline in oestrogen or sudden changes in hormone levels.

Although the level of oestrogen produced by the ovaries declines during the menopause, the ovaries and adrenal glands, amongst other organs and tissues, continue to produce androgen, which can be converted into a form of oestrogen. This conversion takes place in fat cells. It is important therefore that your nutritional status is good and the adrenal glands have not been depleted by chronic stress over the long-term. The body has made provision for the menopause, but our state of health leading up to this time can affect our experience of it.

Common symptoms

Apart from hot flushes, there is no agreement by scientists as to the true symptoms of the menopause. Some of the symptoms reported by women could be due to the ageing process in general or linked to the big emotional upheavals that can occur at this time in a woman’s life such as divorce or children leaving home. Some of the more common signs and symptoms reported by women at this time include: Do not automatically assume that any health changes occurring during the menopause are related to this – do get new symptoms checked out properly.

Phyto-oestrogens

Over the last few years there has been a great interest in the role of naturally occurring plant constituents that have a weak hormonal action on the body. These plant phyto-oestrogens (POs), as they are called, occur widely throughout the plant world and their consumption can affect human health. They are all naturally occurring compounds found in grains, seeds, legumes and medicinal plants as well as other vegetables.

POs can share some of the same biological activities with oestrogens produced in the body. Although POs are much weaker than the body’s own naturally occurring (or endogenous) oestrogens, oestrogen-like effects are apparent after the consumption of POs in many, if not all, of the oestrogen-receptive tissues in the body.

When a women is pre-menopausal, some POs compete with her own oestrogens for the same oestrogen receptor sites – in other words, POs can compete with endogenous oestrogens and thus have an inhibiting effect. This is known as competitive inhibition and may help to reduce the incidence of oestrogen-dependent cancers such as many types of breast cancer, and help to regulate the menstrual cycle. However, it is not clear yet whether POs can be safely recommended for women with such cancers. POs are also capable of slowing down the production of oestrogen produced in fat cells. Cross-cultural studies consistently show that women who eat ‘traditional’, highly unrefined diets (which are typically high in POs) excrete higher amounts of oestrogen than western women.

The effect of POs in a relatively poor oestrogen environment such as the menopause is quite different to that in pre-menopausal women. The POs bind to receptor sites and cause weak oestrogen-like responses that can reduce some of the symptoms of the menopause such as hot flushes and vaginal dryness.

The level of POs tends to be greater when plants are young such as sprouting seeds, when plants are producing seeds, or when plants are stressed by drought or insect attack. The drought-related increase in POs seems to reduce fertility of grazing animals by acting as a type of contraceptive, hence reducing the number of animals who eat the plant.

There are 6 main types of PO consumed by humans. Three are briefly outlined below:

  1. Isoflavonoids
    • Alfalfa
    • Chickpeas
    • Cherries
    • Parsley
    • Liquorice
    • Mung beans
    • Whole grains
    • Red clover
    • Soya
  2. Lignans
    • Linseed
    • Rye
    • Buckwheat
    • Millet
    • Sesame and sunflowerseeds
    • Legumes and beans
    • Whole grains
  3. Saponins
    These substances have a similar structure to the steroidal hormones oestrogen, progesterone and the androgens. This has meant that pharmaceutical companies can use some saponin-containing plants to manufacture steroid hormones.
    • Black cohosh
    • Liquorice
    • Korean ginseng
    • False unicorn root (endangered)
    • Wild yam
    • Fenugreek
    • Beth root
    • Root vegetables
    • Solanacea family
    • Grains

    It is likely that saponins-containing plants exert their effect by interacting with hypothalamic and pituitary hormones rather than interacting with oestrogen receptors

Caution

One possible outcome of the current research into POs is the production of a so-called ‘natural’ HRT – however caution is required. The traditional use of these plants has always been relatively short-term. There is no herbal tradition for prescribing POs for very long periods to prevent bone density loss, breast cancer or cardiovascular disease in the way that HRT is today. In the long run, it is probably best to ensure adequate intake of POs in the diet.

Women who are taking tamoxifen, or any other hormone therapy should seek treatment with a professional herbalist. It is not clear whether herbs will interact with HRT but women on HRT are recommended to seek advice before taking strongly oestrogenic herbs. If you are on any orthodox medication you should seek advice before self-treating with herbal medicines. Those people taking anti-coagulant therapy should be particularly careful. If you are taking strong orthodox medicines or have a complicated medical history you are advised to seek treatment with a qualified practitioner.

Herbs for the menopause

The following herbs may help in supporting the mind and body leading up to and during the menopause.

Alchemilla vulgaris - Ladies mantle

This is a general tonic herb for the female reproductive system and is especially useful for fibroids and heavy, perimenopausal menstrual bleeding.

Herbs containing high levels of tannin, including tea, can reduce nutrient absorption over the long-term. The cause of heavy menstrual bleeding should always be investigated. Bleeding between periods should also be investigated without delay.

Angelica sinensis - Chinese angelica root or Dang gui

This relaxing herb, known as the female ginseng, contains phytoestrogens that can help reduce dramatic mood swings and give a general ‘lift’. It is a fertility herb, so women who are still menstruating should take care!

Avoid during pregnancy. Contra-Indicated for those taking Warfarin or any other anti-coagulant therapy.

Borago offinicalis - Borage seed oil

Borage seed oil, known over the counter as star flower oil, provides a rich source of the EFA gamolenic acid, which is anti-inflammatory, helps improve skin texture and reduce dryness and reduce cardiovascular reactions to stress. The same applies to evening primrose oil.

Cimicifuga racemosa - Black cohosh herb

This herb contains salicylic acid, which is helpful in arthritic conditions. It is a relaxing herb that helps to lower blood pressure and will give general hormonal support during the menopause. Combines well with red clover for hot flushes.

Avoid where there is heavy menstrual blood loss, allergy to aspirin or pregnancy.

Crataegus oxycanthoides - Hawthorn berries

Hawthorn berries help to dilate coronary arteries and lower blood pressure. They also strengthen blood vessels and act as a general ‘tonic’. They need to be taken for quite a length of time – at least 3 months – and work well in combination with limeflowers. Some women find that hawthorn helps with hot flushes.

Avoid if taking digoxin.

Dioscorea villosa - Wild yam root

Contains hormone-like substances (diosgenin) that form the raw material for so-called natural progesterone cream. This plant is also useful in arthritis, rheumatism and some forms of irritable bowel syndrome. It can also help for general menopausal problems.

Avoid during pregnancy.

Eleuthrococcus senticosus - Siberian ginseng

This herb is called an adaptogen – it has a general tonic effect on the body and supports the adrenal glands. It is given where there is profound debility, depression and can help in cases of lowered sex drive.

Do not take for more than 6 weeks at a time. Contra-indicated in high blood pressure and pregnancy. Avoid caffeine whilst taking Siberian ginseng. The same applies to Panax ginseng.

Foeniculum vulgare - Fennel seeds

The seeds of fennel contain a large amount of volatile oil, which helps to relieve bloating and wind in the digestive tract. They also contain phytoestrogens.

Do not take the essential oil internally. Keep to the recommended dosage of the seeds. Contra-Indicated in pregnancy and best avoided in therapeutic doses by women with oestrogen dependent cancers.

Ginkgo biloba - Ginkgo leaf

The traditional usage of this ancient tree is being confirmed by scientific research. It helps to improve circulation to the peripheries, including the head, thus aiding concentration and memory and even helping in cases of dementia. It is also anti-inflammatory and helps keep blood thin and reduce allergic reactions.

Avoid if taking anti-coagulant therapy. Seek professional advice if taking aspirin.

Glycyrrhiza glabra - Liquorice root

Another herb that supports the adrenal glands. It also increases output of the boy’s natural steroid hormones making it a valuable anti-inflammatory herb. Liquorice has a strong oestrogenic effect.

Contra-indicated where there is high blood pressure. Women on HRT or the contraceptive pill should seek advice before taking.

Hypericum perforatum - St John’s Wort herb

St. John’s Wort has been dubbed the Herbal Prozac. It is very useful in menopausal depression, sleep problems and anxiety.

Can cause photosensitivity. Contra-Indicated for those taking digoxin, Warfarin, other anti-depressants, triptans (for migraines), immuno-supressant therapy, theophyllines (for asthma), some HIV therapies, may reduce the effectiveness of the pill.

Humulus lupulus - Hop strobiles

Hops is a cooling, calming herb useful for poor sleep and hot flushes associated with anxiety. It also contains phytoestrogens and supports the liver.

Contra-indicated in depression and pregnancy.

Leonurus cardiaca - Motherwort

This herb is ideal for palpitations associated with hot flushes. It is a calming and uplifting herb.

Avoid where there is heavy menstrual bleeding.

Panax ginseng - Korean ginseng

This herb is called an adaptogen – it has a general tonic effect on the body and supports the adrenal glands. It is given where there is profound debility, depression and can help in cases of lowered sex drive.

Do not take for more than 6 weeks at a time. Contra-indicated in high blood pressure and pregnancy. Avoid caffeine whilst taking Siberian ginseng. The same applies to Panax ginseng.

Rosa damascena - Damask rose

This beautiful herb is the ultimate female remedy. It is ideal for anxiety and depression and feelings of loss, mainly due to the presence of the volatile oils. It is a reputed aphrodisiac and rose water is a wonderful skin toner and spritzer for hot flushes.

Salvia officinalis - Sage herb

This herb is best known for its ability to reduce hot flushes, partly due to its volatile oil content. It is also a calming and uplifting herb. There has been recent scientific interest in sage for its positive effect on memory and mental functioning.

Avoid during pregnancy, where there is kidney disease and epilepsy. Do not take for more than 6 weeks at a time without professional advice.

Salvia triloba - Greek sage

Greek sage has similar properties to common sage. However, it has much lowers levels of the essential oil thujone, which can be toxic in high amounts.

Avoid during pregnancy, where there is kidney disease and epilepsy. Do not take for more than 6 weeks at a time without professional advice.

Scutellaria laterifolia - Skullcap herb

Skullcap is a calming herb, which also nourishes and restores the nervous system over the long-term. Useful combined with valerian, passionflower or hops for sleep problems or general anxiety.

Smilax ornata - Sarsparilla root

This herb supports the adrenal glands and is thought to have a progesteronal action. It is given in debility and depression and can help lowered libido.

Avoid in pregnancy.

Taraxacum officinalis - Dandelion root and Dandelion leaf

Dandelion leaf is a diuretic, useful for water retention. The root provides gentle liver support.

Trifolium pratense - Red clover herb

The flavonoids in the flowering tops are oestrogenic. Red clover can work well for hut flushing. It is also used for skin problems such as eczema and acne

Avoid in pregnancy. Best avoided by women taking tamoxifen for breast cancer.

Turnera diffusa - Damiana

This South American herb is uplifting and anti-depressant. It is traditionally used for a wide range of ‘female’ problems including the menopause.

Avoid in pregnancy

Valeriana officinalis - Valerian root

Valerian is a relaxing herb, ideal for panic feelings and high blood pressure due to stress. It can be helpful for poor sleep too.

Vitex agnus-castus - Chaste tree berries

Vitex acts on the pituitary gland to restore and balance oestrogen and progesterone production by the ovaries. It is best taken leading up to the menopause to ease the transition. It is also used for PMT, regulating periods and increasing fertility.

Avoid during pregnancy. Seek advice if suffering from polycystic ovarian disease.

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