Natural approaches to the MENOPAUSE
The menopause, also known as the change of life is when life begins another chapter. The average age for the menopause is 50 but it can start much earlier or later. It is frequently characterised by emotional, mental and physical symptoms and therefore seen by some as a stage of illness:
Headaches
Irritability
Self pity
Hot flushes
Depression
Rapid mood changes
Vaginal dryness
Frustration
Weight gain
During the menopause the your glandular system undergoes major transformation with the body's production of oestrogen diminishing gradually, bringing about an emotional and physical upheaval. Orthodox treatment often involves Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) which replaces the diminishing levels of the hormone oestrogen but this is not without side effects such as certain types of cancer.
It is vitally important to remember that the menopause is not a disease but is in fact a natural process in a every woman's life. How you view this stage of your life can have a rippling effect on the the symptoms and its severity. Remember it has always been seen as a rite of passage throughout history and this journey belongs to you and understanding your options at this time is within your interest.
It is a time when you do not need approval or to prove something to anyone. The journeys and experiences your life has unfolded, now develops into wisdom. Many of my female clients have seen this time as an awakening when their strength from within finds a place and new directions and paths can be opened up. Intuition is at its highest point when a woman reaches this stage but many fail to trust themselves just as they doubted their feelings and gut sensations as a youth. The menopause is a beautiful time to begin again without having to explain or provide justification.
The use of herbs and a natural diet at this time will support the transition and help make this journey of empowerment pass more smooth.
RELIEF
Ginseng - The chemical structure resembles that of the body's sex and anti-stress hormones and is thought to have a therapeutic action in boosting the body's production of oestrogen. Korean ginseng is the best from to take for this condition.
Agnus Castus - This is especially good for mood swings and depression. It can be used alongside Sage if you are experiencing hot flushes too.
Sage - Great herb for excessive sweating and night sweats or just hot flushes. Also good for uterine cramps.
Black Cohosh - Contains several important ingredients such as triterpene glycosides and isoflavones. This herb is another good one for hot flushes. When the signals between the ovaries and the pituitary gland diminishes thus slowing down the oestrogen production. It is these hormonal changes that cause the hot flushes.
Dong Quai - As with Black Cohosh, this herb also address hot flushes but is also beneficial if you are experiencing vaginal dryness.
Exercise - Some form of exercise is so important at this time for various reasons but foremost to improve your mood and sense of well-being. Strength training exercises will help to build bone and muscle strength, burn body fat, and rev up your metabolism.
Diet - Reducing sodium, caffeine and protein from animal products can also help the body maintain calcium stores. Opt for more alkaline foods - vegetables, fruits, seeds and nuts - to help prevent calcium reserves being leached from bones. Eat foods high in magnesium and boron. The most simplest way to embrace a healthy eating habit is to begin juicing. Include more greens and smoothies in your diet.
Regardless of what treatments or path ways you decide to embrace at this time of life, it is important to remember you are not alone. Whatever dreams or desires you have had are still on the table. It is NEVER too late to live to your hearts content and if your dream is not overwhelming and frightening, then you're not dreaming big enough!