Unlike hormone replacement therapy which artificially raises a woman's estrogen levels, herbal treatments seek to address hormonal balance, whether you need to 'bring on the moon', make the transition to menopause or help regulate your menstrual periods. Herbal remedies for menopause make use of phytoestrogens, chemical compounds occurring naturally in plants, that have similarities to human estrogen. No herb or supplement actually contains estrogen, but these plant compounds tend to act like weak estrogens, without the high level of side effects. Herbs such as alfalfa , black cohosh and dong quai have a long history of use that supports their use in toning the female reproductive system. These estrogenic herbs are often combined with sedatives , diuretics and other hormone balancing herbs to relieve a whole range of menopausal problems including hot flashes, insomnia, moodiness, restlessness and irritability.

When I was going through the change, it was the simple things that had the greatest effect, and I still employ them even now in my crone years. A quick spritz with a few drops of clary sage oil in cool water has a calming, grounding effect on my moods. A lukewarm bath in cooling herbs like eucalyptus and peppermint can reduce the heat of hot flashes, or any time you find yourself overheated. A cup of motherwort tea can bring serenity to the most hectic and stressful day and help you regain your inner balance.