The National Institute of Medical Herbalists recently drew attention to a herbal alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy. Heres what they had to say:-
 
Noting the University of Oxford research published in the Lancet on 12th February that Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) increases the risk of ovarian cancer the National Institute of Medical Herbalists (NIMH) draws attention to research published in the journal Family Practice of trials that show menopause symptoms can be treated safely and effectively by medicinal herbs ( see: http://fampra.oxfordjournals.org/content/24/5/468.abstract?sid=ac553b88-7bb9-41df-a146-0be2a1d4e1ad ).

NIMH’s Director of PR Dee Atkinson said:  “Between about 40 and 52 years of age most women will experience the menopause. During the menopause ovarian hormone levels decline, leading to a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. These include not just the better known hot flushes but also loss of confidence, nervousness and mood swings. Symptoms can precede the cessation of a regular period, often presenting as a marked increase in pre-menstrual symptoms. 

“Increasingly women are understanding more about HRT and its potential side-effects, and many prefer to use natural therapies at this time. 

“Herbs can provide a gentle and effective approach to the menopause, supporting the hormonal and nervous systems. Many medicinal herbs and foods contain ‘phyto-oestrogens’ which can be used to enhance the body’s hormonal status. These phyto oestrogens provide the body with their starting point for manufacturing its own hormones, helping to balance fluctuating hormonal levels. The herbs employed by medical herbalists when working with individual patients help to maintain a healthy hormonal system.”

The Lancet article:  http://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736%2814%2961687-1/abstract