Natural Alternatives to HRT

Women searching for relief from menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, insomnia and vaginal dryness may turn to a number of natural remedies. As concern grows about possible side effects of prescription hormone replacement, the medical community is sponsoring more studies to investigate the efficacy of these remedies.

Dong Quai (Angelica sinencis)

Sometimes called "the female tonic," dong quai contains iron and vitamin E and helps in hormone balance. Scientists aren't sure if Dong Quai mimics estrogen or blocks estrogen, and few studies have been done. However, it does provide relief of hot flashes for some women.

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)

In one study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology in May 2001, 80 percent of the 629 study participants who took black cohosh extract experienced relief from their menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes and headaches. In another study, 80 patients who took black cohosh extract tablets twice a day experienced greater relief from menopausal symptoms than patients who were given estrogen or a placebo.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Licorice stimulates the adrenal gland and produces cortisone-like elements that mimic adrenal hormones. It has a positive effect on both estrogen and progesterone levels. Women who have high blood pressure or who are taking digitalis should not take licorice.

Chasteberry (Vitex agnus-castus)

Chasteberry contains estrogen and progesterone-like compounds. Though first used to repress the sex drive in women of child-bearing age, it doesn't appear to have any effect on libido during menopause. Though several studies have shown the chasteberry is effective in treating PMS, no studies have looked at its success in treating menopausal symptoms.

Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)

Wild yam contains a form of natural progesterone. Wild yam extract creams have been touted as useful for relieving vaginal dryness and hot flashes. A 2001 study by the Baker Medical Research Institute in Australia showed no discernable difference in wild yam cream and a placebo in relieving hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.