What health supplements can I take to reduce symptoms of perimenopause?

Many women do not like to take prescription medications and have been seeking alternative health care products to treat their menopausal symptoms. There are many health supplements for menopause but evidence for most of them is lacking. The one supplement that has been reported to relieve hot flashes and vaginal dryness is black cohosh. This herbal extract has been used for decades in Europe and Asia to treat a variety of perimenopausal symptoms. While reports do show that it works, the benefits are not seen in all women. Moreover, it is difficult to predict in which women the product will work. Black cohosh is generally a safe product but should not be taken by women who have any type of liver disease. When black cohosh works, it generally tends to relieve symptoms in 2-4 weeks.

There are a variety of plant Phytoestrogens which are known to contain the female sex hormone, estrogen. These plant products include soy and red clover. These products only relieve the mild symptoms of perimenopause like hot flashes and also prevent bone thinning. There are also claims that these Phytoestrogens can lower blood pressure and your bad cholesterol. However, it is highly recommended that women who take these products should first speak to their doctor. Phytoestrogens should not be combined with other hormonal pills. Finally, prolonged use of phytoestrogens is not recommended.