Menopause is a natural process and a unique experience for every woman, which signifies the end of the ovulation and monthly menstrual periods. There are various ayurvedic herbs to help minimize the unpleasant side effects of menopause. The ayurvedic name for menopause is Kashatartav.
Menopause also signals other changes in the body and mind. It happens because the body begins to produce lesser amounts of hormones progesterone and estrogen. According to Ayurveda, aging is a Vata dominant stage. Hence, some symptoms experienced by women are similar to the ones when vata dosha rises in the body, which ultimately disturbs the normal balance of the body.
Ayurvedic Herbs for Menopause
Following are some of the ayurvedic herbs for painful menstruation –
- Damiana — It is also called Turnera Diffuse. The herb is an aphrodisiac, antidepressant and pituitary regulator. The herb should not be taken very often as it can irritate the urinary tract lining.
- Black Cohosh — The herb is also known as Cimicifuga Racemosa. This is an excellent herb and it is beneficial for uterus to reduce congestion and cramps. The herb gives relief from muscular pain and hot flashes. The herb also reduces blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Dandelion — The botanical name of the herb is Taraxacum officinale. The herb works best for liver and it gives relief when it is under extra stress because of unregulated hormone level.
- Chaste Tree — It is also known by the name Vilex Agnus- Castus. The herb gives relief from depression which arises from hormone imbalance.
- Ginkgo biloba — The herb fights against depression, fatigue and memory problems. It improves blood circulation, brain function and also oxygen circulation.
- Licorice — The herb’s botanical name is Glycyrrhiza glabra. It is an estrogenic herb and an active adrenal stimulant, hence it is an excellent herb to treat menopause. It can be made into a pleasant tasting herbal tea. It should be avoided by women with high blood pressure.
Some other herbs used for treatment of menopause are –
- Sage (Salvia officinalis)
- Red clover ( Tritolium pretense)
- St. Johns Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
- Raspberry (Rubus idaeus)
- Shepherd’s purse (CapseIla bursapastoris)
- Saw palmetto (Serenoa serrulata)
- Sarsaparilla (smilax officinalis)
- Wild yam (Dioscarea villosa)
- True unicorn root (Aletris farinosa)
- False Unicorn Root (Chamaelirium luteum)
- Dong quai (Angelica sinensis)
Vata type Menopausal Symptoms –
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings
Pitta type Menopausal Symptoms –
- Irritation and anger
- Hot flashes
- Prone to Hot Temper
- Heavy periods
Kapha type Menopausal Symptoms
- Fluid retention
- Lacking motivation
- Weight gain
- Physical heaviness
- Sluggishness
These are some of the Ayurvedic herbs for menopause.
