Adaptogens to Ease Menopause
5 Powerful Options
Adaptogens could be the game-changer you’ve been looking for as your hormones spiral out of control, leaving you feeling miserable. Do you feel like an emotional pressure cooker, set to high, both physically and emotionally?
Your new mood swings are like PMS, with a kick. One minute, you’re Belle, calm and collected; the next, you’re Maleficent, ready to snap. And hot flashes and night sweats? They’re far from your favorite. In fact, you often find yourself with your head in the freezer, seeking relief.
Adaptogen Warnings
Some adaptogens can relieve your symptoms, but caution is essential. Since specific adaptogens can interact with synthetic medications, working with a Chinese medicine expert and your doctor is necessary. Some adaptogens may interfere with thyroid medications, MAOIs, or conditions like low blood pressure. Remember that herbal treatments and most vitamins are not FDA-approved, and many holistic therapies have limited research.*
The Source of Adaptogens
Adaptogens are plant-based remedies that help increase our resistance to stress. These plants are harvested, dried, and then processed into powders, tinctures, or left in their dried form for use in teas.
In the U.S., we’ve been slow to embrace the wisdom our ancestors understood for centuries. Yet, ancient traditions like Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine remind us that plants are more than just food—they’re powerful medicine.
Ashwagandha, aka Indian Ginseng
It improves your mood, supports your blood sugar, keeps your metabolism steady, and helps reduce anxiety and depression. Plus, it boosts your libido. Just add it to your daily smoothie, and you’ll notice the difference.
Astragalus
It helps reduce stress, combat inflammation, and protect your cardiovascular system—essential during menopause. It also strengthens your immune system, provides antioxidant support, and aids in maintaining kidney function.
Maca Root
Regulating your adrenal and thyroid functions, this adaptogen is a natural steroid hormone. It helps relieve brain fog, anxiety, and depression. Plus, it may even boost your libido if it’s been affected by antidepressants.
Rhodiola
This one delivers great results, but the tincture tastes awful—stick with the capsules. It sharpens your focus, cuts mental fatigue, eases anxiety, and reduces hot flashes within a week!
Black Cohosh
This adaptogen is great for tackling estrogen imbalances, helping to reduce hot flashes, night sweats, sleep issues, brain fog, and vertigo. It may also improve bone density and relieve vaginal dryness. However, it can cause strong side effects for some women, so you’ll need to choose carefully.
How to Start Exploring Adaptogens
Start by journaling your symptoms for two weeks to track patterns and identify areas of concern. Next, research adaptogens that interest you and create a list of options. Schedule an appointment with a certified practitioner of Chinese medicine to discuss your list in detail. During this consultation, you’ll explore your medical history, lifestyle, and expectations for these plants. Lifestyle matters—if you’re a professional athlete, for instance, herbs like maca may be prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency.
Afterward, book an appointment with your doctor to review your discussion with the Chinese medicine expert. Share the insights and recommendations you received and follow your doctor’s guidance from there. This order is important because doctors may not always be familiar with adaptogens, whereas a specialist in Chinese medicine can provide valuable information to bridge the gap.
Capsule, Tinture or Tea?
Capsules are easy to carry, and tinctures last for years if you keep them in the fridge or a cool dark place. You can buy the plants in their natural form and create your own products.
Where to Buy Them
When shopping for adaptogens, prioritize sources that carry organic products, are sustainably harvested, and have knowledgeable staff familiar with adaptogens for menopause. A practitioner certified in Chinese medicine can be invaluable in guiding you to reputable brands and products. Instead of general online retailers like Amazon, consider ordering directly from the manufacturer to ensure proper storage and quality.
When adaptogens are combined with nourishing menopause-friendly foods and regular movement, they can truly help you master your menopause journey.
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*Health and wellness coaches engage in evidence-based, client-centered processes that facilitate and empower clients to develop and achieve self-determined, health and wellness goals. We do not diagnose, interpret medical data, prescribe or de-prescribe, recommend supplements, provide nutrition consultation or create meal plans, provide exercise prescription or instruction, consult and advise, or provide psychological therapeutic interventions or treatment.
