Menopause is that time in the reproductive phase of a woman where by the levels of circulating Estrogen diminishes to such low levels as to cause physical, psychological and sexual symptoms.

Physical symptoms: Hot flashes, night sweats, palpitations, insomnia, joint pains, headaches and weight gain.

Psychological symptoms: Mood swings, irritability, anxiety, difficulty in concentrating and coping, memory problems and forgetfulness.

Sexual problems: Loss of sexual drive and difficulty in sexual intercourse due to vaginal dryness.

At or around menopause (between 48-52 years) there is a decline in the ovarian functions and amounts of hormones produced by the hypothalamus - Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing hormone which results in decrease in the ovarian hormones, chiefly Estrogen. The amount of Estrogen and Progesterone produced are so low that periods no longer occur. While cessation of periods can be welcome to many a woman, the wide-ranging effects of lack of Estrogen can be discomforting to an equal many.

The hypothalamus controls appetite, sleep, sex hormones and body temperature. Low levels of Estrogen confuses the hypothalamus and indicates that the body heat is higher than usual. There are immediate signals sent out to the heart, blood vessels and nervous system. This leads to dilatation of skin blood vessels to radiate off the excess heat and sweat glands increase the production of sweat which leads to the characteristic hot flashes in menopause.

Menopause can be physiological as part of natural ageing or can be brought on surgically when the ovaries are removed in a woman. In either case the diminishing levels of Estrogen can bring on a wide range of symptoms.

A disciplined and systematic approach is required to help ease the symptoms of menopause. Lifestyle changes like cessation of smoking, diet and exercise are as much important as medical management. The cornerstone of management of menopause has been Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT.) HRT has been quite successful in eliminating most of the symptoms of menopause in many women. The inherent risks of hormonal replacement have been the subject of many a debate. The increased incidences of endometrial cancer, breast cancer and an increased risk of deep vein thrombosis has been a deterrant to many patients accepting HRT. The search has been going on for an Estrogen that is derived from plant sources and lacks the potential to cause these dangerous side effects. Phytoestrogens are a class of compounds derived from plant sources and have been studied extensively. These compounds bind to Estrogenic receptors and produce the same effect like natural or synthetic Estrogen.

Phytoestrogens are known to: Strengthen bones and heart, control weight, lessen hot flashes, improve sleep, boost energy, increase sex drive and make the skin glow - naturally.

There are several sources of phytoestrogens and a ideal combination would include:

Saraca indica: The bark is rich in Ketosterol. It has a stimulating effect on the endometrial and ovarian tissues and produces an Estrogen-like effect. It has been used to counter dysmennorrhoea and mennorrhagia. It also strengthens and tones up the uterus.

Asparagus racemosus: The roots are conventionally used to treat debility, infertility, impotence, menopause, stomach ulcers, indigestion and dehydration. It provides strength to the uterus and acts as a general tonic.

Symplocus racemosus: It has been shown to control uterine swelling by increasing the contraction of the uterine muscles and arrest excessive uterine bleeding.

Aloe vera: Improves blood circulation to the uterus.

Cedrus deodara: A powerful analgesic that serves to alleviate any painful menopausal condition.

Terminalia chebura: A powerful adaptogen and anti-stress agent.

Glycerrhiza glabra: A powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic. It also serves as a brain tonic and a rejuvenator that alleviates the physical and psychological symptoms of menopause.

Centella asiatica: Significantly alters the neurochemistry in the brain. A powerful brain tonic and anti-depressant that serves to improve the mood. Promptly alleviates the psychological symptoms of menopause.

There are several other phytoestrogens but these have not been studied to a great extent. One of the commonest is Soy Isoflavones that has received much publicity of late.