Homeopathy and Hot Flashes

There is no doubt that many women entering their peri-menopausal and menopausal years are searching for some sort of relief from the symtoms commonly associated with this time of life. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has long been a mainstay, but does not come without it's controversey. Women should consider homeopathy as a first-line therapy before heading down the HRT path.

A study released in Homeopathy January 2008, reported on a multi-national, 99 physician study which studied the effectiveness of homeopathic treatment on hot flashes and quality of life. 438 patients with an average age of 55. Homeopathic medicines were prescribed to all patients; 98% of the prescription lines were for homeopathic medicines. Lachesis mutus, Belladonna, Sepia officinalis, Sulphur and Sanguinaria canadensis were the most prescribed. A non-homeopathic treatment and/or food supplement prescribed for 5% of the patients.

Ninety percent of the women reported disappearance or lessening of their symptoms, these changes mostly taking place within 15 days of starting homeopathic treatment.

Homeopathy is a effective and safe treatment option of menopausal symptoms, but it is not always easy to decide on a remedy without the consult of a physician. Here are some non-homeopathic treatment and supplement options:

• PHYTOESTROGENS--Superstar soy phytoestrogens, found in soy foods, other legumes and plant foods, can bind to estrogen receptors in the body, exerting beneficial weak estrogen-like effects and anti-estrogen effects as well. The estrogen-like activity of phytoestrogens helps explain their ability to alleviate hot flashes in some menopausal women. Substantial research suggests that isoflavones, the phytoestrogens found in soy, also appear to decrease vaginal dryness, improve cholesterol levels, help prevent breast and uterine cancer and limit bone loss associated with menopause, notes Hudson in her book, Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. For those who do not like soy, isoflavone supplements are available (50-150mg/day).
• VITAMIN E--may relieve hot flashes and vaginal dryness, based on research findings over the past 50 years. In a recent well-controlled study, breast cancer survivors taking 800 IU of vitamin E daily had fewer hot flashes than the placebo group, though the difference wasn't large. Look for natural vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) instead of the synthetic form (dl-alpha tocopherol). A formula with mixed tocopherols and tocotrienols (other forms of, or relatives of, vitamin E), in addition to d-alpha tocopherol, provides an even broader spectrum of antioxidant benefits (and vitamin E is very heart-friendly). A common recommendation is 400-600 IU per day.
• BLACK COHOSH--Black cohosh extract is widely used to alleviate menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, depression and vaginal atrophy. The standardized extract of black cohosh has been the subject of six or more well-publicized studies with positive results. It may also alleviate night sweats, nervousness, headaches and heart palpitations. 80mg twice per day is recommended.
• The list of supplements and botanicals that can help ease the menopausal transition and offer disease protection doesn't end there; St. John's wort, licorice, dong quai and numerous others may have benefits as well. The range of options emphasizes the importance of a knowledgeable practitioner's help.