Menopause

Alternative Therapies for Menopause

Complementary and alternative therapies are medical treatments that are considered nontraditional. They include dietary and herbal supplements, acupuncture, chiropractic and massage therapy, biofeedback, homeopathy and eating certain foods that are thought to prevent disease and heal.

Alternative treatments are often used alone, while complementary treatments are alternative treatments that are used in combination with traditional treatments, such as drug treatments or surgery.

What Are Botanicals?

Botanicals are medicines that are derived from plants. They have been used for centuries by "folk healers" and are the foundation for nearly half of prescription drugs used today. Botanicals in the form of herbs and nutritional supplements make up a large part of alternative therapies.

Can Botanicals Relieve Menopausal Symptoms?

Some botanicals, such as phytoestrogens, may help relieve menopausal symptoms. Phytoestrogens, found in plant-based foods, are substances that are thought to have weak estrogen-like effects. They may work in the body like a weak form of estrogen. Some may lower cholesterol levels and have been suggested to relieve hot flashes and night sweats. An example of plant estrogens are isoflavones. Isoflavones can be found in foods such as soy products, whole grains and beans.

Are Botanicals Safe?

While safe when taken in moderate amounts through diet, the consumption of extraordinary amounts of soy and isoflavone supplements may be harmful to women with a history of estrogen-dependent cancer, like breast cancer and possibly to other women as well.

More research is needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of botanical treatments. To make an informed decision about the use of these treatments, be sure to discuss them with your doctor.

What Are Warning Signs About Product Safety?

When trying to determine whether or not a product is what it says it is, one of the elements you may want to look at is how the product is promoted. Be cautious of products promoted through telemarketers, direct mailings and infomercials. Additional red flags to look for include:

• Big Claims. If products claim to be a "cure" for your condition, or gives outrageous claims, be cautious.
• Source. Be wary if the product is only offered through one manufacturer or purchased only through a healthcare provider’s office.
• Ingredients. Make sure all of the active ingredients are listed, and don’t trust "secret formulas."
• Testimonials. Remember that only people who are satisfied with a product give testimonials and that they may be getting paid for their endorsement.

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