Key Nutrients of MENOsmart plus
Black
Cohosh is the most researched herb for the treatment of menopausal
symptoms and the replacement of standard hormone replacement therapy
(estrogen and progestins). It is effective in the treatment of the
following menopausal symptoms: hot flashes, heavy perspiration, headaches,
heart palpitations, depression, sleep disturbances, vaginal atrophy
(thinning of the vaginal walls causing painful intercourse), vaginal
dryness, nervousness, irritability and loss of concentration.
In 2004 researchers discovered that black cohosh has no hormone action
and that it works on the vascular system to reduce hot flashes and night
sweats. As a result studies were then performed using black cohosh along
with tamoxifen in women with estrogen receptor positive breast cancer to
dramatically reduce hot flashes. Black cohosh is safe and
non-estrogenic.
Sage Leaf: The Medicines and Healthcare products
Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the European Union recently approved 300 mg of
sage per day as a treatment for excessive perspiration associated with
menopause. In the United Kingdom, medical herbalists treat menopausal women
suffering from hot flashes and night sweats with sage. The sage in
MENOsmart PLUS is not an alcohol extract or an oil. The safety studies for
long term use of the full herb (i.e. longer than one year) are excellent.
Research demonstrates that 300 mg of sage does not cause elevated heart
rate or blood pressure.
Dong Quai is an effective treatment for the symptoms of
menopause, especially hot flashes, as well as for painful menstruation that
causes spotting but no full blood flow. It will also relieve too frequent
menstruation (more than one menstrual cycle per month).
Chastetree Berry, also known as Vitex, has no direct
hormonal activity and is not estrogenic. Its main active ingredients
stimulate the pituitary gland to produce a hormone that, in turn, increases
progesterone. Vitex also inhibits the production of prolactin, which
increases at menopause. Excess prolactin triggers male facial hair growth
and acne in women, among other symptoms. Excess prolactin is also found in
women with low thyroid function.
Gamma-oryzanol, which is isolated from rice bran
oil, is recommended for the treatment of hot flashes, to enhance pituitary
function and to promote endorphin release by the hypothalamus, thereby
improving mood. Not only is it a very effective substance for alleviating
menopausal symptoms, but it also lowers triglycerides and total
cholesterol. This is especially important because women of menopausal age
and beyond are at increased risk of heart disease.
Hesperidin, a potent flavonoid from citrus fruit,
improves the vascular (vein) system and capillaries, thereby improving
cardiovascular health and reducing bruising. It has also been shown to
reduce hot flashes and night-time leg cramps.
