Menopause Symptoms and Treatment : Herbs and Home Remedies for Menopause

Hormone replacement therapy is the conventional method of dealing with menopause; HRT has been associated with a wide array of complications. There are hosts of nature cures and herbal remedies to manage the symptoms of menopause successfully, naturally and without any side effects.

What is Menopause?: Menopause Symptoms
Menopause is the cessation of menstruation. The ovaries stop releasing eggs and the menstrual cycle ceases. When a woman does not have a period for 6 months, she is said to have completed menopause.

Mild Depression is
common during Menopause

Typically, the intial symptom is irregular mensturation which may be in the form of amenorrheoa and prolonged bleeding. The other symptoms include,

• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Dryness of the vagina
• Mood swings and irritability
• Mild depression
• Decline in the bone mass or osteoporosis

 Menopause Treatment: Menopause Home Remedies

Though conventionally Hormone Replacement Therapy has been used for the treatment of Menopause and alleviate the symptoms of associated with the condition, recent study findings have indicated the increase risk of developing cancers, osteoporosis, obesity and heart disease with prolonged use of HRT.

The natural treatment for menopause calls for a multi-disciplinary approach; involving correct eating, certain dietary prescriptions, herbal remedies, adequate exercise and nutrient supplementation.

Soy milk is effective
in managing
menopausal symptoms

• Soy: soy is the most important remedy to fight the manifestations of menopause. Soy provides your body with isoflavones and phytoestrogens; in fact, the phytoestrogens present in soy are similar to the estrogen manufactured by our body and thus offer significant protection and make up for its deficiency. One serving of soy beans, soy milk, tofu, etc. are recommended.
• Flax seeds: flax seeds supply loads of omega 3 fatty acid and vitamin E, both of which protect the heart and ward off cardiovascular diseases. Estrogen exerts a protective effect over the heart, staving off heart disorders, however, in its absence; one is more vulnerable to atherosclerosis, angina and cardiac infarction. Thus, 3 tablespoons of roasted and ground flax seeds are advised by per menopausal as well as menopausal women.
• Mint: Mint tea relieves most aches, pains and discomfort associated with menopause. It keeps the weight in check and battles hot flushes effectively.

Natural Remedies for Menopause: Herbs for Menopause

Herbs can be used effectively to manage the symptoms of menopause and aid the smooth transition from the reproductive to non reproductive phase in the women's life.

•  Black cohosh: experts recommend 40 mg everyday. The black cohosh stabilizes hormone levels in the body, reduces hot flushes and sweating, efficiently manages depression and vaginal dryness.
• Ginseng: ginseng acts like a wonderful tonic. Used in combination with black cohosh it helps cope with the symptoms of menopause. Take about 200 mg daily.

Treating Pre Menstrual Syndrome Naturally: Benefits of Homeopathy for PMS

Homeopathy, as a system of medicine has evolved from the concept of Law of Nature, which unlike the modern system of medicine dont change over decades. Homeopathy is based on the law of Simila Similbus Curentum, which means that same ( or similar) cures similar. Homeopathic drugs undergo a series of provings on healthy human subjects, which is aimed at treating ailments in diseased or unhealthy individuals. Homeopathy is also a medical science which is associated with minimal side effects and has been largely used for the management of chronic ailments which modern medicine fails to manage. However, its effectiveness in the management of acute ailments including premenstural syndrome disorder is significant. This article is about homeopathic drugs that have been effective in the management of premenstural syndrome disorder.

PMS is very distressing
and painful

Understanding Homeopathy: Benefits of Homeopathy for Treatment of Premenstural Syndrome

Homoeopathy is an extremely efficient, comprehensive, and composite system of treatment. The system aims at attaining complete, and lasting cure, naturally. Homoeopathic remedies bring to balance, the deranged vital principle of the patient, and thus, causes cure. Countless homoeopathic remedies have shown excellent results in the management of PMS.

Homoeopathic medicines are obtained from nature – leaves, flowers, fruits, animal extracts and products, and minerals, and are totally devoid of any harsh side effects. Homoeopathy, together with dietary corrections, aromatherapy, and Yoga will bring about significant improvement in women suffering from PMS.

Homoeopathic drugs achieve a balancing effect on the hormones, the drugs treat abdominal bloating and discomfort, body aches, and headaches efficiently. Homoeopathy also exerts a balancing and calming effect on the mind, allaying irritability, nervousness and depression along with bad temper.

Homeopathic Drugs for Management of PMS: Treating Pre Menstural Syndrome Naturally
Here are 2 drugs that have proved to be exceedingly efficacious in the treatment of pre-menstrual syndrome.

Homeopathy can help
in management of
Menstrual disorders

• Cimicifuga: Cimicifuga is an excellent and effective remedy to manage pre-menstrual syndrome. The medicine reduces muscular spasms, pains, and cramps effortlessly. Backache, pain in the thighs, pain in the abdomen / ovarian region, are managed well. The drug is also found effective in the management of breast tenderness and fullness. Cimicifuga has a marked therapeutic effect on the mind. It ameliorates depression, gloom and sadness that come on before and during the period. Overall, this remedy is considered beneficial in ameliorating the symptoms of PMS.
• Sepia: Sepia is another homeopathic drugs with potential benefits on the female reproductive system. The remedy is know to treat throbbing and shock like pains in the head during menstural periods and helps in reducing the intensity and severity of these headaches. The drug is also potential beneficial in the treatment of pimples, boils and acne which may arise due to hormonal imbalance during menstrual periods. Sepia is also an important remedy for management of heaviness and fullness in the abdomen, espeically associated with abdominal/ premenstrual cramps during PMS.

Precuations while Using Homeopathy:  Homeopathy for Health
In general homeopathic drugs are considered to be safe and free of any major side effects. It is imperative, that you bear in mind, that all medical conditions are handled well and successfully by a multi-disciplinary approach. Homeopathy, coupled with dietary regulations for management of menstrual problems is associated with a high percentage of success.
It should always be borne in mind that homoeopathy treatment, similar to any other treatment requires the physician to take a detailed history of the manifestations, before prescribing the most suited remedy. Consulting a trained and qualifed homeopathic pratitioner is a must prior to taking homeopathic medications. 

Homeopathy for Ovarian Cysts: Treat PCOS with Natural Remedies

Homoeopathy is a very efficient and amalgamated system of medicine. This form of medicine brings about complete, long-lasting, and holistic cure. Homeopathic remedies are prepared from natural products like flowers, plants, seeds, etc. Homeopathic remedies are known to bring to balance, the deranged vital principle of the patient, and thus, causes cure. Numerous homeopathic medicines have shown favorable results in the management of PCOS. This article is about the role of Homeopathy in management of ovarian cysts and endocrinal disorders like PCOS

Treating Ovarian Cysts Naturally: Homeopathic Remedies for PCOS

Homeopathy manages
PCOS

Homeopathy is a science of medicine which belives in the concept that each individual has a vital force within the body and disease occurs due to the derangement of this vital force.

Based on the concept of Simila Similibus Curentum ( Similar cures similar), homeopathic drugs help restore the normal balance of the vital force within the body. Homeopathic drugs have be tested on healthy human subjects for the effects on the health of an individual.

Reports suggests that there are several factors that contribute to the formation of ovarian cysts. Homeopathic drugs assist in balancing the fluctuating hormonal levels, they prevent further formations of cysts within the ovaries, they help shrink the existing cysts, regularize the menstrual period, and aid in effective and healthy weight loss.

Homeopathy, clubbed with nutritional changes / modifications, and closely watching your daily diet, will bring about significant improvement in females suffering from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Also, it is vital that the patient pays special attention to the prevention and / or management of diabetes, which frequently develops in a PCOS. It is imperative to bear in mind, that all diseases and medical conditions are tackled well by a multi-disciplinary approach.

Homeopathy management requires the physician to take a detailed account of the symptoms before prescribing the optimum and most suited drug. In most cases homeopathic drugs are not associated with any side effects and are relatively safe. However it is adviced to seek medical consultation prior to taking any homeopathic drugs.

Remedy for Ovarian Cysts: Lycopodium for PCOS

Lycopodium is one of the important medicine in the arsenal of homeopathic drugs. This natural medicine is considered to be very beneficial in the management of ovarian cysts and helps in alleviating the symptoms associated with PCOS.

• Lycopodium helps to regularize menstural cycles, which is one of the most common complaint associated among patients with PCOS and ovarian cysts. Often menses that are too late, delayed, or too profuse. Lycopodium addresses to all these modalities.  
• The drug has specific affinity for ovarian cysts affecting the right ovary. It helps relive abdominal pain which is associated with premenstural syndrome.
• Occassionally, patients associated with PCOS or cysts in the ovary may complain of leucorrhea (i.e. whitish discharge from the vagina). Lycopodium is effective in treating this condition.

In addition to the specific complaints associated with ovaries, lycopodium is also considered effective in management of abdominal bloating, gaseous distention and constipation, which are often associated with ovarian cysts. Lycopdium helps control appearance of cystic acne and also helps in the treatment of acne scars and ance marks.

Thuja useful in
Treating Cysts in Ovaries

Thuja for Polycystic ovaries: Cyst in Ovary Remedy

Thuja is another important homeopathic remedy which can be used for the treatment of ovarian cysts and also treat PCOS. Thuja is specifically effective in women who suffer from scanty or no menstural periods with a special affinity to the left ovary.

• Thuja helps in the treatment of lecorrheoa which is greenish, thick and profuse in nature.
• Thuja also helps in reducing hirsutism which is associated with PCOS and has a marked effect on the skin by improving the tone and texture of the skin and treating of different types of acne.

A multidisciplinary approach comprising of a combination of correct diet practices, lifestyle modifications and homeopathy can help in aiding in the management of ovarian cysts and also help in avoiding or delaying surgical intervention.

Ovarian Cyst Symptoms: Diet for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Cysts in the ovaries are one of the most common endocrinal disorders in women within the reproductive age group. Estimates suggest that approximately 4-12% of American women suffer from ovarian cysts. European studies have shown a relatively lower prevalence at about 6-8% of reproductive age group. Also referred to as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), the condition is an important contributing factor for female infertility. This article provides insight into the problem of cysts in ovaries and also suggests certain dietary and lifestyle measures to treat the condition effectively.

Radiological Image of cysts



What is Ovarian Cyst? What is PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome)?

Ovarian Cyst is a thin walled, fluid filled structure located within the ovary. In most cases ovarian cysts are usually harmless and found in almost all premenopausal females. Here is how cysts are formed in an ovary,  

• During the reproductive lifespan of a female (which ranges from 35-40 years) and has approximately 500 monthly menstrual periods.
• During each menstrual period, the ovary releases an ovum, which is formed from an ovarian follicle, during the mid of the menstrual cycle.
• In some cases however, the ovarian follicle doesn’t mature and fails to release the ovum. This results in the formation of a fluid filled pea shaped structure in the ovary often referred to as an Ovarian Cyst. Most of the times, cysts in ovaries are harmless and often regress naturally. 

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, on the other hand is a complex condition which is characterized by formation of multiple cysts in the ovaries. These cysts are formed due to persistent failure of the ovarian follicle to mature completely and release the ovum. In this syndrome complex, new ovarian follicles are formed in each cycle, but fail to release the ovum and in turn get converted into ovarian cysts. This results in formation of multiple ovarian cysts in the ovary, which eventually results in an enlarged ovary.

Ovarian Cyst Symptoms: Symptoms of PCOS

 

Though in most cases ovarian cysts are asymptomatic and may be incidental findings on the abdominal sonogram. However some ovarian cysts, especially endometrial cysts and singular ovarian cysts may be associated with symptoms like,  

• Severe abdominal pain, especially during menstrual cycles
• Rupturing and internal bleeding may be observed in cases of very large cysts.
• Compression on the surrounding organs namely the bladder or the rectum may result in symptoms like frequent urination or constipation.

On the other hand, symptoms associated with PCOS are relatively different type of symptoms,

• Presence of multiple cysts in one or both ovaries. This is often based on ultrasound findings.
• Menstrual irregularities in the form of amenorrhea (i.e. complete absence of menstrual cycles) or irregular periods which may last for over 45 days with absence of periods for about three to four months.
• Several females complain of infertility, due to failure of ovulation
• Obesity or sudden increase in weight gain after menarche
• Acne and pimples on the face 
• Hirsutism or excessive facial and body hair
• Hair loss on the scalp

Cyst in Ovary Causes: Causes of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

The etiology or causative factors for formation of ovarian cysts are not clearly understood. There are various factors which have been identified,  

• Genetic or hereditary factors play a crucial role in the occurrence of PCOS and ovarian cysts
• Hormonal imbalance caused in the body primarily due to use of oral contraceptives or faulty dietary practices can also increase the risk of occurrence of cysts in the ovary
• Lack of exercise and sedentary lifestyle is also linked with the increase in ovarian cysts and PCOS

Diet for Ovarian Cysts: Dietary Management for Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

 

Making certain dietary changes is necessary to manage the symptoms of PCOD effectively. Diet plays a crucial role in the management of weight gain, preventing or tackling diabetes, treating acne, and handling mood swings.

 



Lower Caffeine intake


• Avoid caffeine and stay away from caffeinated drinks. High levels of caffeine can upset the production of hormones and weaken the adrenal glands. Also, these beverages are high in calories. You need to limit your intake of tea, coffee, and chocolate. Pouring coffee and tea into small cups instead of large ones can help you lower your caffeine intake.
• Include foods that have a low glycemic index, as PCOS is often associated with fluctuation in the levels of insulin. Low glycemic foods include - vegetables, whole cereals (whole wheat, brown rice, broken wheat, and oats), fresh fruits (avoid currants, dates, dried figs, melons, and watermelon,).
• Avoid refined and processed foods. Saturated oils and Transfats are considered to increase the risk of ovarian cysts and PCOS. 
• Avoid high glycemic foods which include confectionery items, baked foods, processed meats, refined flour, refined sugar, soft drinks, and alcohol.
• Opt for skimmed milk, instead of whole milk; it has lesser fat and calories.