Herbal Remedies for Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

Hot flashes and night sweats are among the most common and the most uncomfortable symptoms that women going through menopause suffer with.  Research has indicated that up to 85% of women experience hot flashes starting the first year or so of the onset of menopause.  Currently, the most widely used medical treatment for these symptoms is estrogen replacement therapy.  This may be a somewhat effective treatment for these symptoms.  However, it isn't a cure, and any time hormone levels are modified, there can be unwanted side effects and possible negative impacts on the body.  Because of this, more and more women have been seeking out herbal remedies for hot flashes and night sweats, as well other alternative therapies, such as using magnetic therapy for treating menopause symptoms.

The actual causes of hot flashes remain rather unclear.  However, fluctuations in hormone levels involving elevated amounts of the hormones FSH and LH, both during and after menopause, are presumed to be the culprits. In an attempt to raise dropping estrogen levels these hormones can be increase to 13 times normal levels during the menopausal period.

During a hot flash, waves of heat pass through the body and face, which can cause redness of the skin and excessive sweating. The redness could appear blotchy or dispersed evenly, and the sweating could be light or heavy. Hot flashes could be brief, lasting for a matter of seconds or a few minutes, or last for a longer periods of time.  They may last for 10-15 minutes, and, in rare cases, up to an hour.

The intensity and discomfort of hot flashes and night sweats results in many women seeking out the use of drugs to try to reduce their symptoms.  This is often exacerbated by the societal notion that natural menopausal changes are somehow a medical condition. However, it is often possible to treat these symptoms more safely and effectively using herbal remedies and alternatives.

A hot flash which occurs during the night is referred to as a night sweat.  These often coincide with feelings of anxiety or fear. A simple solution may be to always have a glass of water and a some motherwort available near you at night.  Simply take 10-12 drops of the motherwort with a small amount of water. Not every woman has hot flashes, and only a portion of the women who do also get night sweats. However, there are still a large number of women who suffer with both.

Exercise can directly help to reduce the intensity and occurrence of hot flashes by reducing LH and FSH, by moderating the hypothalamus, and by increasing endorphin levels. Even a minimal amount of exercise - 15 minutes a day, three to four times a week - could help noticeably reduce the occurrence of hot flashes.  Additional natural and alternative variables which can help treat the root causes of hot flashes, include diet and nutrition, taking supplements, and herbal medicines and remedies.  We have compiled some of the most commonly used herbal remedies for hot flashes and night sweats to help provide relief from these uncomfortable symptoms of menopause.

Black Cohosh

Black Cohosh is a plant popular in Europe for treating hot flashes. Research has shown that Black Cohosh may be as effective as estrogen for reducing hot flashes and one study also indicated that it was effective for reducing sweating.

Motherwort

Motherwort has been reported to reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes.  It is also know to help calm nerves, reduce anxiety, and help fight insomnia.  You should use this herb regularly for  a period of 3 months to achieve good results. A common dose amount for treating hot flashes is about 15-20 drops of a tincture, taken several times a day.  You should never use this if you have menstrual flooding, since motherwort can exacerbate this.

Flaxseed Oil

Fatty acids, like flaxseed oil, are generally considered to be an effective treatment of symptoms associated with menopause. Flax contains lignans, which have similarities to estrogen, and may help to moderate and stabilize estrogen levels during menopause.

Evening Primrose Oil

A standard and general remedy used for the reproductive health of women, evening primrose oil has a soothing effect on hot, red skin and can help moderate and control the production of estrogen. It is also used as an aid for sleep.

Chickweed Tincture

Taking this herb on a daily basis has been known to reduce the intensity of hot flashes, as well as their rate of occurrence.

Chaste berry

Chasteberry affects the function of the pituitary glands and has been shown to be effective for helping to reduce hot flashes and dizziness. Its beneficial properties during menopause could be due to its ability to modify LH and FSH levels. Chasteberry reduces estrogen levels and raises progesterone levels.  This helps to strengthen not only bones, but also the vaginal walls.  Results are generally felt after 2-3 months of regular use, and steady, long-term results require taking it for a year.

Licorice Root 

Licorice Root is a long-used, traditional treatment used for a range of female-related issues and disorders.  Incidentally, it also acts as an effective expectorant and cough suppressant for treating respiratory infections and asthma. It is theorized that it acts to lower estrogen levels, while also raising progesterone levels, which makes it a good candidate for treating hot flashes and night sweats.

Red Clover

Red clover contains high levels of phyto-estrogens.  It has been observed to aid in reducing the occurrence of hot flashes, as well as their severity.

Other Herbs

Other herbs which have been reported to have similar, hot flash reducing attributes are spearmint, damiana, wild yams, and red raspberry leaf.

Vitamins E and C

Research has shown that Vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, can significantly aid in reducing hot flashes.  It is always best to get vitamins from dietary sources.  However, a vitamin E supplement is also fine to take.  Also, some menopausal women have reported that Vitamin C has reduced the rate of occurrence of their hot flashes.

Homeopathic Remedies

In addition to herbal remedies for hot flashes, homeopathic treatments are also somewhat popular with many women. Treatments such as ferrum phosphoricum, Belladonna, Sanguinarina, and Kali Phosphoricum are often used for various menopause symptoms, including hot flashes.

Other Tips For Relieving Hot Flashes

In addition to using the herbs and other remedies we've listed above, there are additional, simple steps you can do to help alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats:

Do not use synthetic bedding and/or clothing.

Keep your body cool.

Quit smoking, if you smoke.

Take measures to reduce stress.

Reduce your intake of spicy foods.

Avoid drinking alcohol.

Lower your intake of caffeine.


For more information on treating hot flashes see Natural Remedies for Hot Flashes (The North American Menopause Society), and Menopause Symptoms And Treatments (Dr. Weil).

Taking Kudzu Might Not Curb Alcohol Use

The findings of a research study have indicated that taking kudzu may not cut alcohol intake. The study was published in the journal Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research. Kudzu is an herbal remedy that has been used for a long time to treat alcoholism, and, in tests, it has been discovered to lower alcohol dependence in animals.

In the study, 12 participants took either kudzu or a placebo for a period of 9 days. While kudzu did result in higher blood alcohol levels in the study participants, it had minimal or no effect on their cognitive, behavioral, and/or physical performance.

Kudzu contains an estrogen type substance known as isoflavones Isoflavones are also located in soy. Previous studies have reported that kudzu could help to bolster cognitive function and reduce vaginal dryness in women who are postmenopausal. It may also be able to be used to treat cluster headaches and guard against metabolic syndrome.

Five Herbs to Aid Digestion

Chronic problems with digestion can be very disruptive and uncomfortable, and they can turn eating into a very unpleasant event. Problems such as heartburn, upset stomach, gas, and diarrhea are experienced by millions each day. Generally, most doctors instantly and readily prescribe a chemical or drug to lower the amount of stomach acid. However, oftentimes these chemicals can actually make your digestive problems worse, rather than relieve them. Physicians tend to agree that most stomach problems are usually caused by a group of associated problems, rather than a single issue.

In years past, roots and other herbs were grown as spices for food because of their helpful digestive properties. Modern digestion problems are so prevalent because of our propensity to eat mostly processed foods - foods which lack necessary nutrients. The wonderful thing is that supplementing your diet with natural herbs has been shown to be effective at relieving most of the digestion problems which affect most people. Following are five of the best natural herbs to aid digestion, and which problems each is most helpful for.

Ginger

Ginger is a powerful healing herb that has been recorded as an effective treatment in some very early medical writings. Among other things, ginger has excellent digestion properties, and has long been used to prevent and treat digestive problems. These days, ginger is mostly used to treat problems like irritable bowel syndrome - this can including helping to alleviate symptoms such as gas, constipation, nausea, vomiting, bloating, and diarrhea..

Fennel

Fennel is another natural spice that has long been utilized for its ability to help ease and prevent upset stomach. Fennel is often used to relieve symptoms such as heartburn, cramping, bloating, and general digestive issues. Many women use this herb in a tea for alleviating morning sickness, and others have used it to help calm the stomach following treatments like chemo and radiation.

Aloe

Aloe is an all-around healing herb that should be on everyone's herbal supplement list. Particularly, if you suffer from digestive problems, you should make aloe one of your required herbs. Aloe contains essential amino acids, enzymes, as well as vitamin C. It has a good ability to naturally soothe the stomach.

Gentian

Gentian is not as well known as the other herbs, but that doesn't mean it's any less effective. Gentian root has been used for many years to bolster digestive function. It works well because of its extreme bitterness - it is one of the bitterest herbs known. This bitterness helps to stimulate digestive fluids and, thereby, bolster the function of the digestive system, helping to prevent upset stomach and other digestive problems.

Peppermint

Peppermint is a wonderful herb that is used for a variety of health benefits, of which digestion is one of the main ones. The easy thing about peppermint is that there are a variety of ways to take the recommended daily dosage. Regarding digestion, peppermint has been linked to relieving symptoms common to irritable bowl syndrome including gas, bloating, nausea, diarrhea, cramping, and constipation.

The herbs on this list have a variety of potential health benefits other than just aiding digest, so taking one of them to treat digestive problems can also help improve your overall health. Taking prescription medications isn't necessarily the best solution to all medical conditions.

For more information on herbs that can aid in digestion, see 30 Digestive Herbs (Mother Earth Living).

Supplements and Herbs for Depression

In recent years, a number of clinical studies and research have been performed regarding the use of herbal supplements for treating mental health conditions such as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, and other psychological and emotional disorders. Following is a brief summary of some of the most widely studied and utilized supplements which have been used for depression.

St. Johns Wort (Hyperforin and Hypericin)

St. Johns Wort is the most popular natural herbal supplement on the market which is used for mood enhancement. The active phytochemicals in St. John's Wort, called hyperforin and hypericin, are thought to be integral to its anti-depressive effects. An analysis of the numerous clinical studies involving hundreds of participants indicates that St. Johns Wort may be effective in aiding to alleviate depressed mood and smooth out mood fluctuations by helping to maintain the balance of key neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine and GABA.

Valerian Root

Valerian root is well-known for its sedative and calming effects on the central nervous system and is widely utilized as a calming agent to help relieve headaches, feelings of anxiety and difficulty falling asleep.

According to a number of clinical studies, the results from using Valerian for one day to one month are mild sedation and lessened feelings of anxiety and nervousness, as well as better overall sleep quality. The calming effect on the central nervous system is primarily ascribed to the valepotriate and sesquiterpene components of the root.

5-HTP

An early large-scale clinical study regarding the use of 5-HTP for depression was done in 1972. Participants who suffered from both unipolar and bipolar depression took oral dosages of 5HTP from 50 mg to 300 mg each day. Substantial improvement of symptoms was seen in nearly 70% of participants and no substantial side effects were observed. The response rate of most of the participants who took 5-HTP was very fast and improvements were seen in under two weeks.

This study has been backed by additional clinical studies since then that have shown 5-HTP to be an effective alternate treatment for depression.

Rhodiola Rosea (Arctic Root)

Rhodiola rosea is noted for its adaptogenic properties in Russia, Europe, and Scandinavia. Recent research has shown that rhodiola raises the body's resistance level to emotional and physical stress. In a number of pre-clinical studies, Rhodiola was discovered to bolster the healthy function of the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine and GABA, a function which may be responsible for aiding in the reduction of anxiety, mental fatigue and depression in people who take the herb on a regular basis.

SAM-e

Research indicates that SAM-e crosses the blood-brain barrier and may inhibit the reuptake of serotonin, thereby increasing how much is available to central nervous system. Researchers think that this could be the primary mechanism of action SAM-e utilizes for stabilizing mood. Clinical research has suggested that SAM-e could start working in as little as one week and a review of over twenty clinical trials discovered that SAM-e's effects on mood are statistically significant compared to a placebo.

Bacopa

Bacopa is widely known to have a calming effect and may relieve feelings of nervousness, stress and anxiety. Clinical trials have also suggested that Bacopa may significantly help insomnia, headaches, and mental fatigue.

Bacopa may aid in bolstering retaining new information, logical memory, and other types of cognitive function.

Ginseng

Research has investigated the potential benefits of ginseng. While further research data is still required, a 2002 study monitored participants who ingested daily doses of ginseng over eight weeks. After four weeks of taking ginseng, the study discovered that participant scores improved regarding both social functioning and mental health.

Ginseng may aid in improving cognitive function related to arithmetic, memory, cognitive speed, and accuracy. In a research study regarding children, ginseng used in a combinedtherapy resulted in lowered hyperactive-impulsivity scores in children diagnosed with ADHD.

Kava Kava

Kava Root's calming effects have been compared to standard sedatives because of its unique action on the central nervous system. Kava Kava is absorbed very rapidly by the body, which results in a fast-acting natural sedation, making Kava one of the most widely used herbal supplements.

An analysis of reserach discovered that Kava Kava is more effective than a placebo for reducing symptoms of anxiety and also suggested that Kava Kava was as effective in reducing generalized anxiety as the widely-used prescription medication Buspirone.

For more information, see Herbs and Supplements for Depression (HealthLine).

Herbal Supplements for Losing Weight

More and more people are turning to natural herbal supplements and herbs in order to try to help with losing weight. There are various processes and mechanisms by which these various supplements and herbs are thought to aid weight loss. These include adding increased bulk to your diet, raising metabolic activity and increasing fat burning, eating nutritionally rich foods, and mood enhancement.

For many, stress, overwork, tiredness and a sedentary lifestyle result in gaining weight. In 2002, over 60% of adult Americans were overweight and 25% of this group were obese. Overeating, eating the wrong kinds of foods, and eating out exacerbate the problem, and obesity has quickly become one of the most pressing health problems we now face as a society.

If you want to help your weight loss using herbs and herbal supplements, consider using a balanced preparation that also includes a quality B complex supplement to increae your energy levels.

Natural Herbs Used for Weight Loss

Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantium) - This herb works in a similar manner to ephedra. Both herbs contain beta blockers which have been shown to cause body fat loss, as well as increase metabolic levels in those who combine exercise and caloric restriction to lose weight. Bitter orange should be taken with caution if you suffer from heart disease or have high blood pressure.

Cayenne (Capsicum minimum, Capsicum annuum, C. frutescens) - Thought to help weight loss based on the concept of the heat of the plant matter.

Hoodia gordonii (Hoodia gordonii) - The San Bushmen have traditionally used this herb, which they have named Xhoba, to suppress the appetite when on a long trip. Hoodia has recently become the most popular herb for appetite suppression in the US. The active compound in Hoodia is called P57. There are multiple varieties of Hoodia, but only Hoodia gordonii contains P57. The exact mechanism that P57 uses is still being investigated, however, what is known about it is that it affects the brain to suppress appetite. It also aids weight loss by reducing blood glucose, which reduces the amount of insulin circulating in the blood, which, in turn reduces the amount of fat stored.

Ephedra (Ma huang) (Ephedra sinica) - Numerous clinical studies have reported its weight loss benefits, but there are safety concerns with using this herb.

Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) - Green Tea has caffeine and has been reported to aid weight loss amongs other health benefit claims. Additionally, it is a very rich source of antioxidants.

Guarana ( Paullinia cupana)- This herb has gained a reputation for helping to lose weight via increased metabolism. It is thought to function in a similar manner to caffeine.

Guggul (Commiphora mukul) - Guggul is believed to alter the metabolism, possibly lower cholesterol, and therefore could help weight loss.

Yerba Mate (Ilex paraguariensis) - This herb is from Paraguay, South America and is thought to increase the metabolism.

Spirulina (Blue-Green Algae) - This natural herb is believed to be helpful in a weight-loss diet because its high nutritional density helps to satisfy hunger.

St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) - This herb is known to be a natural mood lifter, and therefore may indirectly aid with losing weight.

Benefits and Properties of Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a an herb which which has been used throughout history in order to help promote good health and wellness. Recent research has found that the active compound 4-hydroxyisoleucine can aid in maintaining healthy glucose levels and in correcting metabolism of sugars. The body’s ability at managing and balancing correct blood sugar levels could be the single most critical variable affecting your overall health and longevity, and the one which is most impacted directly by diet and lifestyle.

However, today’s high-glycemic carbohydrates and sugar-heavy food (combined with low levels of activity) have created a serious obstacle to people being able to maintain their body’s intricate glucose/insulin balance. The resulting stress and deterioration of cells has dire consequences for both the body and mind. As a supplement to your diet, Fenugreek is an excellent tool to help improve blood sugar levels, and therefore, your quality of life.

Fenugreek has an extended history of folk use across Asia and the Middle east as an anti-diabetic, to treat stomach ulcers, to promote lactation, and as an herb to treat a variety of skin conditions. Much of the research on fenugreek has had a focus on its cholesterol-lowering, blood lipid-lowering and anti-diabetic properties. These properties seem to be directly linked to the presence of soluble fibers, primarily galactomannans. Galactomannans have also been shown to have fat-sequestering properties, which causes them to bind to dietary fat and reduce its absorption by the body. Additionally, the anti-diabetic properties of fenugreek have been linked to the presence of a novel, free amino acid, 4 hydroxyisoleucine.

4-hydroxyisoleucine is an amino acid derivative that aids insulin production in the pancreas. Research has shown that supplementing your diet with fenugreek lowers fasting blood sugars and improves after-meal glucose tolerance substantially. 4-hydroxyisoleucine operates by two different mechanisms: It stimulates insulin production for people who want to raise their glucose metabolism and aid in the reduction of glucose resistance and the uptake of glucose, which reduces overall blood glucose levels.

A number of research studies have shown 4-hydroxyisoleucine plays an important role in promoting insulin and in regulating glucose. 4-hydroxyisoleucine promotes the secretion of insulin, thereby reducing the amount which blood glucose is elevated. Elevated blood glucose levels after eating can lead to an increase in the production of body fat.

Some Benefits of Grape Seed Extract

Grape seed extract is one of the most powerful antioxidant supplements you can buy. Antioxidants are chemicals which act to reduce oxidation which occurs within the body. The natural extracts from the plant contains procyanidolic oligomers, also known as PCOs. Researchers have found that PCOs strengthen blood vessels and also help to stimulate and improve blood circulation.

 This antioxidant has been found to be about 20x stronger than Vitamin C and almost 50x stronger than Vitamin E, and is even stronger than Beta Carotene. Grape seed extract functions as an extended antioxidant that can remain in your bloodstream for up to three days.

In the late 90's it was first found that grape seed extract acts as a preventative against skin cancer. It was also found that grape seed extract may help to protect against prostate cancer. It is also widely believed that grape seed extract may serve to aid in slowing the aging process.

In other research studies, grape seed extract was found to possibly reduce the effect of cellulite. It has also been reported that it may help lower cholesterol, which in turn may lower blood pressure levels.

Grape seed extract is usually taken in capsules or tablets. Take it with a full glass of water and, if you have a sensitive stomach, you may take it with or without food.

Herbal Home Remedies for Treating Acne

Acne generally originates from wrong eating habits, such as an irregular eating schedule, eating excessive amounts of starch, sugar, fried and/or fatty foods. Chronic constipation may also be a cause of acne. Other causes of acne are unhygienic living habits, drinking too much tea, coffee, alcohol, or tobacco, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Following, we've listed some of the most commonly used herbal home remedies you can employ to help treat acne:

Burdock (Artium lappa)

Burdock is an ideal astringent which helps to remove excess oils from the dermis. Use it on a daily basis to treat oily skin. It could
take a few weeks before an improvement to the skin is visible. Place two handfuls of burdock roots and leaves into about two cups of water. Bring the water to a boil in a pot. Lower the heat and continue to simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Dip a clean cloth in the mixsutre and use it as a compress until cool. Repeat this process, keeping the mixture hot, for 15-20 minutes.

Strawberry

Crush a whole strawberry and rub on the face. Leave it on the face for 10-15 minutes. Then, rinse the face thoroughly with water. This should aid in clearing acne blemishes. ALERT: Some people may be allergic to strawberries. Test a patch of skin before using the facial treatment.

Baking Soda

Produce a paste by mixing baking soda and water. Apply this mixuture to the face and leave it on for about five minutes. Then, rinse the paste off using apple cider vinegar. Rinse the face again with water. Lastly, rub some vitamin E oil onto the face and leave it on overnight.

Thyme

Thyme can function as a good astringent. This allows it to be used in clearing up acne blemishes. Start by pouring 1-1/2 cups of boiling hot water over four tablespoons of thyme (dry). Let it steep for about a half an hour. Then, strain and bottle the resulting liquid. Keep the mixture refrigerated. Teenagers who suffer from acne can use this mixture daily to treat acne.

Orange Peel

Orange peel has been reported to be an effective treatment for acne. Pound the peel well with water against a stone. Then, the ground peel should be liberally applied to any areas affected by acne.

Garlic

Garlic has also been reported to have been used to successfully treat acne. Pimples often disappear when they are rubbed with raw garlic a few times a day. Even extremely stubborn acne has been successfully treated using this herb. Use garlic externally to helps clear acne from the skin. This can further be aided by eating two or three pods of raw garlic once a day for a few weeks in order to help purify the blood.