Menopause: How to beat the night sweats
BY READERS DIGEST
1st Jan 2015 Health Conditions
Night sweats are often, but not always, linked to hot flushes–and are a common symptom of the menopause. Here are some natural ways to reduce night sweats during the menopause.
- Black cohosh may be used to help control hot flushes and night sweats. Research has shown that this herb helps to control hot flushes by lowering blood levels of luteinising hormone (LH), which dilates blood vessels and sends heat to the skin. Black cohosh is available in tablet, capsule and tincture forms. Some Japanese research hints that black cohosh might also slow the loss of calcium from bone, so countering the progression of osteoporosis in women who take it. For maximum effectiveness, take black cohosh for 6 weeks, then take 4 weeks off before resuming it again. Then repeat the cycle–6 weeks on, 4 weeks off.
- To tame night sweats, try sage tea. It has astringent qualities that can help to dry up abnormal sweating within a day or so. Pour 1 cup boiling water over 3 teaspoons dried sage, cover, steep for 5 minutes, then strain. Add a little honey, if desired.
- Some women find that taking vitamin E can help to relieve hot flushes and night sweats as well as mood swings and vaginal dryness. The suggested dose is 250mg twice a day. However, you should talk to your doctor before you start taking vitamin E regularly. This is especially important if you have diabetes, bruise easily or have high blood pressure.
- To help to stay cool, wear lightweight clothing made of natural fibres, and keep your bedroom cool by keeping the window open/ using an electric fan.
- Some women find that taking a tepid bath in the morning for 20 minutes prevents hot flushes for the whole day.
- You could also try Meno Joy - it's based on a combination extract of hops and red clover which provides a variety of natural isoflavone types. Red clover helps coping with the typical signs associated with menopause, such as hot flushes, sweating, restlessness and irritablity.
