Hot Flash Supplements

Hot Flashes or hot flushes are typically experienced before menopause (peri-mnenopause) when hormone levels begin to drop quite suddenly. It is believed that this fast reduction in oestrogen can negatively affect the circulation, causing blood vessel dilation and creating heat and redness in the face and neck. When a Hot Flash occurs at night, it is referred to as a night sweat. Hot Flashes can cause considerable discomfort and sometimes embarrasment for some individuals. Night sweats can also lead to significant sleep disturbances, and the myriad difficulties that can arise from lack of sleep. 

One of the most specific supplements that can be taken for Hot Flashes is a herbal medicine called Sage, or Salvia officinalis. In traditional medicine, this herb was used to manage the heat and redness. Additionally, soy isoflavones such as Genistein and Daidzein, have phytoestrogenic activity that may help to alleviate the signs and symptoms of low oestrogen. Phytoestrogens are natural plant chemicals that offer a weak oestrogen effect. However, in an oestrogen depleted individual, once a phytoestrogen binds to receptors on a cell, it's weak effects can be enough to trick the body into believing it has more oestrogen than it actually does. This can  assist in the management of the signs and symptoms of peri-menopause and menopause.

There are many other herbal and nutritional compounds that may be helpful during this natural stage of life to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible. Other lifestyle and dietary factors to watch out for are excessive caffeine, nicotene, spicy or hot foods, excessive sunlight or heat, psychological stress and excessive alcohol intake.