The Menopause At Work Series – Alternatives to HRT

Alternatives to HRT:

Use Phytoestrogens, – naturally occurring plant hormones. Phytoestrogens are classified chemically into three main categories: isoflavones (found in legumes such as soy, alfalfa, lentils, chickpeas, pinto beans, and lima beans); phytosterols (such as coumestans, found in red clover, sunflower seeds, and bean sprouts); and lignans (found in flax seeds, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains).

Soy

Soy products (soy, miso, tempeh, natto) provide additional health benefits, for example, positive effects on cholesterol levels and possible prevention of osteoporosis with little, if any, risk of adverse effects.

Dong quai

Used in Chinese medicine for disorders of the women’s reproductive system including menopausal symptoms, dysmenorrhea and irregular periods, and menstrual cramps, menstrual flow abnormalities, nervousness, dizziness, insomnia, and forgetfulness.

Black cohosh

May be useful in the treatment of menopausal symptoms, although not to be used on a long term basis.

Traditional Women’s Tonics

Used to strengthen libido and fertility. Can help reproductive, cardiac, bone, and mental health through menopause. Known women’s tonics include Bacopa, Damiana, Ginseng, Gotu kola, Motherwort, Shatavari, Tribulus.

Qi

Kidneys: Qi supports the body’s systems and is associated with reproduction and growth and development. Nourish kidneys in early stage of reproductive life and in issues associated with infertility and insufficient growth and development, as well as menopause.

Liver: Uterus gets its blood from the liver where it is stored. Liver also controls the smooth flow of qi, blood needs qi to move. Nourish liver with blood tonics and regulate its function for smooth flow of energy and blood.

Spleen: Makes blood from food, and holds the uterus in place. Nourish blood with qi tonics, especially at menopause.

Lungs: Govern qi and are affected by sadness & grief, which can cause qi, fluid, and blood stagnation and suppress menstruation.