Natural Remedies for Menopause
Oct 31, 2024 09:31AM ● By Dr. Gary KracofMenopause is a
natural and transformative phase in a woman’s life, typically occurring in the
late 40s or early 50s. Hormonal shifts, marked by a decline in estrogen and
progesterone lead to various common symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats,
mood swings, physical and mental fatigue, sexual frustration and sleep
disturbances. The onset of these symptoms commonly begins several years before
menopause and persists for up to five years after, significantly affecting
daily life and overall well-being.
Rhapontic rhubarb
root extract (ERR) is a clinically researched ingredient renowned for its
therapeutic benefits for the diverse facets of menopause. This potent botanical
extract provides comprehensive relief, addressing the varied and interconnected
symptoms women may encounter during menopause. Its primary mechanism of action,
acting as a selective estrogen receptor modulator, ensures thorough and safe
support throughout this transformative phase.
While hormone
therapy (HT) is effective for vasomotor symptoms, concerns about increased
risks limit its use. ERR is a tailored, hormone-free solution for women during
this transitional time. By harnessing its proven benefits, this product
specifically addresses hormone balance, maintains a normal inflammatory balance
and provides antioxidant support to help women navigate the challenges of
menopause with greater ease and well-being.
ERR is a
phytoestrogen extract derived from the roots of rhapontic rhubarb (Rheum
rhaponticum L.), also known as Siberian rhubarb, and is recognized in
scientific literature as a solution for menopausal complaints. It has been used
for cooking and medicine for centuries in parts of Asia and Europe. In
traditional medicine, its roots were believed to help with various health
issues like digestion, heart health and female reproductive health. Scientists
have found that it contains compounds called stilbenoids, some of which act like estrogen, a hormone
important for women’s health.
Specifically, ERR
functions as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). This means that it
selectively targets estrogen receptor β (ERβ) in the body, without affecting
estrogen receptor α (ERα). This specificity is documented in in-vitro studies
and is crucial because it allows ERR to deliver its benefits in addressing
menopausal symptoms without influencing other estrogen receptors in the body.
By targeting ERβ specifically, ERR can provide relief from common menopausal
symptoms such as hot flashes and mild mood disturbances while potentially
avoiding unwanted side effects associated with the activation of ERα. This
targeted action helps ensure efficacy while minimizing the risk of adverse
effects.
Its mechanism of
action also involves modulation of neurotransmitters, stabilizationof
luteinizing hormone (LH) levels and potential antioxidant activity,
contributing to its efficacy in alleviating 11 of the most prevalent menopausal
symptoms as measured by changes in the Menopause Rating Scale II (MRS II),
including hot flashes and mood disturbances.
Clinical trials
support ERR’s safety and efficacy, with no adverse events reported over
observational periods of up to two years and significant relief observed in
menopausal symptoms.
An open
observational study with 252 peri- and postmenopausal women over six months
demonstrated significant and sustained improvement in menopausal symptoms with
ERR. Another 12-week study with 112 perimenopausal women showed significant
reductions in hot flashes and overall menopausal symptoms with ERR compared to placebo.
Unlike many other natural remedies, ERR has been studied extensively at the
same dose, making it easier to recommend. Several studies suggest that the use
of this ingredient is well-tolerated. ERR is now available in doses of one
capsule daily.
Dr.
Gary Kracoff is a registered pharmacist with a doctorate in naturopathic
medicine at the Johnson Compounding and Wellness Center, at 577 Main St.,
Waltham, MA. Consultations with their professional pharmacists and dieticians
are also offered. For more information, call 781-893-3870 ext. 2, email [email protected] or visit NaturalCompounder.com.