What are some natural herbal remedies for menopause?

Some effective natural remedies for the symptoms of menopause are soy, black cohosh, flaxseed, vitamin E, cold drinks and exercising. Lifestyle changes are additional options. According to WebMD, soy contains natural plant estrogens that some studies show may alleviate hot flashes and night sweats. Soy food products such as tofu and soy milk are recommended for best results.

Black cohosh is a natural herb that may provide relief from hot flashes and sweating on a short-term basis; however, studies of its effectiveness are mixed, notes WebMD. Flaxseed oil or flaxseed grounds may be helpful, but they tend to be hard to digest. Vitamin E is useful when applied as a topical treatment to relieve vaginal dryness. A fast way to relieve the heat from hot flashes is to drink a cold beverage. Cold water or fruit juices with antioxidants are recommended. Avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol. Aerobic exercise and yoga are helpful in alleviating mood swings, and they also increase chances of getting a good night's sleep.

Practicing healthy lifestyle behaviors can have a positive impact on menopause symptoms, notes the Office on Women's Health. In addition to exercising, a healthy diet increases energy while protecting general health. Smokers are encouraged to quit, because smoking tends to trigger menopause symptoms.