Alternative Treatments for Hot Flashes (cont.)
What alternative treatments for menopause have been scientifically studied?
The alternative treatments for menopause that have been
studied in well-designed trials include phytoestrogens (plant estrogens,
isoflavones), black cohosh, and vitamin E.
Phytoestrogens
Isoflavones are chemical compounds found in soy and other plants (such as
chick peas and lentils) that are phytoestrogens, or plant-derived estrogens.
They have a chemical structure that is similar to the estrogens naturally
produced by the body, but their effectiveness as an estrogen has been estimated
to be much lower than true estrogens.
Some studies have shown that these compounds may help relieve hot flashes and
other symptoms of menopause. In particular, women who have had breast cancer and
do not want to take hormone therapy (HT) with estrogen sometimes use soy
products for relief of menopausal symptoms. However, some phytoestrogens can
actually have anti-estrogenic properties in certain situations, and the overall
risks of these preparations have not yet been determined. For example,
researchers have shown that long-term use of phytoestrogens in postmenopausal
women led to an increase in endometrial hyperplasia (overgrowth of the tissues
lining the uterus) which can be a precursor to cancer.
There is also a perception among many women that plant estrogens are
"natural" and therefore safer than HT, but this has never been proven
scientifically. Further research is needed to fully characterize the safety and
potential risks of phytoestrogens.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is an herbal preparation that has been
popular in Europe for the relief of hot flashes. This herb is becoming more and
more popular in the U.S., and the North American Menopause Society does support
the short-term use of black cohosh for treating menopausal symptoms, for a
period of up to six months, because of its relatively low incidence of side effects when used over the short
term. Some studies have shown that black cohosh can reduce hot flashes, but most
of the studies have not been considered to be rigorous enough in their design to
firmly prove any benefit. There have also not been scientific studies done to
establish the long-term benefits and safety of this product. Research is ongoing
to further determine the effectiveness and safety of black cohosh.
Vitamin E
Some women report that vitamin E supplements can provide relief from mild hot
flashes, but scientific studies are lacking to prove the effectiveness of
vitamin E in relieving hot flashes. Taking a dosage greater than 400
international units (IU) of Vitamin E may not be safe, since some studies have
suggested that greater dosages may be associated with cardiovascular disease
risk.
Other alternative therapies
There are many supplements and substances that have been advertised as
"natural" treatments for symptoms of menopause, including licorice,
evening primrose oil, dong quai, chasteberry, and wild yam. Scientific studies to prove
the safety and effectiveness of these products have not been performed.
Next: Alternatives for Treating Hot Flashes At A Glance »
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