What Natural Herbal Remedies could disrupt your HRT?
Claire Horn
This question was one that came up when I did my last workshop. So rather than answer it straight out I wanted to ensure I was gaining the correct information from my training. So here you go guys. Hope this helps xx
For those of you that would prefer to go down the holistic route these are a few herbs that you could consider that may help with certain symptoms however there is no scientific evidence yet to prove otherwise. Its worth consideration especially if you are unable to take HRT due to medical reasons.
Some herbs and alternative remedies may help alleviate menopausal symptoms. However, they can interfere with other medications, so it’s important to always seek your doctor’s advice before taking herbal and alternative medicines.
St John’s Wort
This is known for its use with People suffering from Mild to Moderate Depression. Some woman have found that it reduces their hot flashes and night sweats during Peri/Menopause. It can also aid anxiety and help with sleep.
The plant has been used for centuries to help mental health problems. But the ingredients of products containing St John’s Wort may vary, and their effects are uncertain. It’s important also to bear in mind that these products can also interfere with many other commonly used drugs, such as Warfarin and breast cancer drugs like tamoxifen. St John’s Wort should also not be taken alongside any other antidepressant, so you should seek advice from your doctor before taking St John’s Wort.
Black Cohosh
History tells us that Native Americans used Black Cohosh to alleviate their menopausal symptoms. Helps with Painful periods and childbirth.
Studies have also shown it could help with symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, BUT there’s also evidence that it may cause liver problems and increase the risk of womb cancer.
As a herbal remedy, black cohosh is not well studied, and the scientific evidence is inconclusive.
Red Clover
Red Clover is the flowering member of the bean family. It contains Isoflavones, these are plant estrogens that bind to some estrogen receptors in the body and mimic estrogen. They may help reduce hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause.
Please bear in mind that studies on the effects of red clover have not shown clear evidence of benefits.
These herbal remedies have many different preparations, but their safety is uncertain. You really need to seek the advice of a qualified healthcare professional, such as a nutritionist or doctor. Make your doctor aware of any supplements or remedies you are taking, as there may be interactions with your current medication.
Should you decide to take any over-the-counter preparations, look for the Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) marking on the packaging. The THR is overseen by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK.