Phytoestrogens

Background

For women choosing a more natural or botanical choice to menopausal changes, plant hormones (phytoestrogens, phytosterols such as beta-sitosterol and others) have become increasingly popular in this country. It is said that around the world many cultures have traditionally relied upon these botanical sources either by choice or as a part of their daily nutritional routine. In fact, less developed (but less stressful) societies that have traditionally relied upon diets high in wild yams (diosgenins) or soy seem to have substantially lower menopausal symptoms than are common in the U.S. The most notable is a study of the Trobriand Island tribe near New Guinea where the wild yam is well venerated and central to their diet. They seem to show no signs of menopausal change as women in this country know it.

These phytoestrogens and phytosterols have effects that are biochemically quite complex. They seem to act either as weak forms of estrogen stimulators (agonist receptor-site action) or in other cases as protective against higher levels of estrogens by competitive inhibition (antagonist receptor-site action). So that they have both the protective action against sites that might stimulate cells in the breast or uterus to cancerous action. In other sites (and sometimes at the same time) they are weak stimulators of those same sites in ways that provide the protection against declining natural estrogen levels.

These natural sources also form the basis of the natural hormones that are synthesized in the lab. Natural hormones cannot be changed in the body from their wild form to the identical estrogen or progesterone forms. Instead, they have their own "phyto" properties as mentioned.

Botanical Choices

Herbs known to have these effects are now quite numerous. These are the most commonly used and ones that you will find in Menopausal combined-herb formulations:

Black Cohosh - relieves hot flashes and vaginal dryness

Don Quai - relieves hot flashes and improves circulation. Vasomotor instability, the medical term for fluctuating blood pressures is the object here. This, and Black Cohosh are the most commonly used herbs. Contains beta-sitosterol.

Ginseng - balances stress, improves circulation, stimulates the immune system. Venerable root comes in various ages, varieties and potency. Siberian, Chinese, Korean or American ginsengs are available and have different genus names.

Vitex Agnus-Castus or Chasteberry - affects the pituitary and the stimulation of the three pituitary releasing hormones: luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and Prolactin. It seems to normalize progesterone levels.

Valerian - natures valium. A calming agent.

Wild Yam - a prohormonal support. Although wild yam does not directly convert to progesterone or estrogen it does have its own effect as an anti-inflammatory and adrenal support. This is the basis of many of the synthesized natural hormones.

Licorice Root - Stimulates the adrenal glands by compensating for "weak adrenal" syndrome. Cautionary note: in large does this can raise blood pressure by simulating Aldosterone, the major blood pressure hormone (mineralocorticoid). Also contains beta-sitosterol.

Sarsaparilla - increases metabolic rate and helps improves the circulation.

Additionally the following are also used by experienced naturopaths:

Alfalfa
Angelica
Blessed thistle
Buchu
Elderberry
False Unicorn
Motherwort
Pennyroyal
Shaper's Purse
Squaw Vine
Lady's slipper
Passion Flower

Additional Support

While not herbal, the following provide additional natural support:

Vitamin E - provides vascular support and softening of tissues. Well known for it potent anti-oxidant and anti-aging role.

PABA - used to prevent the rapid metabolism of estrogens, thus boosting declining levels. Also used as a tissue softening agent in large doses.

Gotu Kola -

Ashwaganda -

Reishi Mushroom -

Ginger -

Conclusion

Women now have a variety of choices the cover the entire spectrum. It is in some senses almost bewildering in its scope. We subscribe to approach that each patient is individual with unique needs and biochemistry. We pride ourselves in being able to offer you this customized approach. With a "start low, go slow" attitude, we typically advise our patients that the final balance may take a few months. But once the balance is attained, you will feel confident that it is the right balance for you, rather than a "take it or leave it" attitude.

We have given you a brief overview of the constituent botanicals, herbs and other micronutrients contained in the many formulations that are now available. These can be used as the primary approach to the peri-menopausal period or post-menopausal symptoms or in addition to low dose natural hormonal replacement therapy.

It's your choice...

We invite your comments and questions.

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