Women trying to find out how to get rid of hot flashes sometimes search among the hot flash websites that are not providing website templates. A recent review of the results returned by three of the most popular search engines showed that of the hot flash websites that are related to menopause, the majority are sponsored by pharmaceutical companies. There are a few blogs where women can talk about their symptoms and ask each other for advice. There are sites that are sponsored by doctors and women's clinics. And, there are sites promoting vitamins, herbs, botanicals and other natural therapies for hot flashes. In this article, we hope to provide enough information to help you weed through the massive amount of available information and learn how to get rid of hot flashes, without drugs or hormones.
The common belief is that hot flashes begin when estrogen production by the ovaries slows down and that they end after the body becomes accustomed to the lower level of hormones. But, no one knows for sure. Some doctors believe that lifestyle, stress level and dietary habits play a role. The latest research has revealed that there are genetic differences between women who experience more severe hot flash symptoms than others. So, as with most health issues, genes probably play a role.
Damiana Herb
Pharmaceutical companies have tested the effectiveness of different drugs for relieving hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, since hormone replacement therapy is now considered to carry more health risks than benefits. A group of anti-depressants known as Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors have been shown to be somewhat effective, but no more so than certain herbal remedies. Studies concerning low-dose equine estrogens appear to be less effective than herbs and dietary supplements containing phytoestrogens, but are still often recommended by doctors. Even though researchers have suggested that doctors should take a more active role in discussing the role of diet and health supplements, many still respond to a woman's initial complaints with a prescription pad. Perhaps they feel that a woman can learn about things like black cohosh on her own.
According to the hot flash websites that promote botanical remedies, taking dietary supplements may be how to get rid of hot flashes. Soy isoflavones, dong quai, chaste berry, red clover, ginger, sarsaparilla, tribulus terrestris, damiana, maca root and black cohosh are just some of the names that you see at these sites. Next we look at the most recent research related to these remedies promoted by hot flash websites, as well as the historical use of these products in traditional medicine, where applicable.
Soy beans, tofu, soy flour, soy milk and other soy products have been suggested as dietary supplementation for menopausal women. Soy isoflavones are a type of phytoestrogen or "plant" estrogen. Dietary supplements containing soy isoflavones are increasingly popular. Some experts have suggested that adding soy products to the diet is probably more effective than taking a supplement, but the clinical research performed thus far indicates that supplements containing isolated soy isoflavones provide more relief than eating food containing soy.
Dong quai is a Chinese plant sometimes referred to as "female ginseng". It was used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat gynecological ailments, fatigue, anemia and high blood pressure. It is a good source of vitamin B12 and has been shown to have pain relieving, anti-inflammatory and sedative effects. However, scientific studies have shown that it increases the growth of breast cancer cells. Thus, women who have a history of breast cancer in themselves or in their families should avoid this product.
Chaste berry or the berry of the chaste tree is cultivated in the Mediterranean. Its scientific name is vitex agnus-castus. It is an herbal treatment of PMS and is considered to be a tonic for both the male and female reproductive systems. It is believed to support increased testosterone production in men, but it is unclear what affects it has on a woman's metabolism. Several scientific studies have confirmed that it effectively relieves breast pain and tenderness.
While preliminary research suggests that ginger root may be effective for many medical conditions, including boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation, eating or taking supplements containing ginger is probably not the answer to how to get rid of hot flashes. In fact, the spice could trigger hot flashes in some women and it can cause mild allergic reactions, including bloating, flatulence and tightness in the throat.
Tribulus terrestris is an interesting plant that seems to increase the production of the hormones estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. It has been used as an alternative to synthetic steroids by athletes and body builders. Results of scientific research have been mixed.
Damiana may not be the answer to how to get rid of hot flashes, but studies have shown that it can improve and enhance sexual function in menopausal women. Maca root is promoted by some hot flash websites, but there is no scientific research supporting its use. As a food source, it contains a number of vitamins, minerals, trace elements and fatty acids, but it is doubtful that encapsulating the powdered root would provide these health benefits.
Red clover, sarsaparilla and black cohosh were used traditionally by Native American healers to correct hormonal imbalances. Scientific studies have shown that all three effectively reduce hot flash symptoms more than placebo. Black cohosh appears to be the most effective and research supports its safety for use in women with at risk of breast and/or endometrial cancer.
Some health supplements contain a blend of plant components that are particularly effective. To learn more about the one that we believe is the answer to how to get rid of hot flashes, please visit the Menopause and PMS guide, one of our favorite hot flash websites.