HERBS FOR PERIMENOPAUSE
Perimenopause is a topic that many women don't talk about, but it's a reality for half of us! It's a transitional phase that can start in your 30s or 40s and can last up to 10 years before you officially enter menopause. During this time, your hormones fluctuate, which can cause a range of symptoms that can make you feel like you're losing your mind.
If you're experiencing the symptoms of perimenopause, you're not alone. In fact, studies have shown that up to 85% of women experience some sort of symptom during this transition. Symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, irregular periods, insomnia, vaginal dryness, and decreased libido.
But what if we told you that there are natural ways to help alleviate some of these symptoms? That's right - herbal medicine can be a powerful tool during perimenopause.
One herb that has been shown to help with perimenopause symptoms is shatavari. This herb is known for its ability to balance hormones and can be especially helpful for hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. shatavari is a moistening adaptogen and thus can help moisten the mucous membranes of the vagina, digestive and urinary systems which can be affected during perimenopause. Many women also complain of dry eyes and mouth during this transition with an accompanying vision and teeth issues so moistening things are helpful!
Another herb that can be helpful during perimenopause is reishi. This adaptogenic mushroom is known for its ability to support the immune system and reduce stress. It's also been shown to be helpful for hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia. Reishi can be helpful in helping to calm the farm when irritability strikes so its a good one to take on the regular.
Rose is another herb that can be helpful during perimenopause. This beautiful flower is known for its ability to calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety. It's also great for supporting the skin and is thought to open the spiritual heart and soothe grief, which for many perimenopausal women, with aging parents, can be helpful.
Damiana is another herb that can be helpful for perimenopause symptoms. This herb is known for its ability to improve libido, which can be affected during perimenopause. It's also great for reducing anxiety and supporting overall mood.
Ashwagandha is another adaptogenic herb that can be helpful during perimenopause. This herb is known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety, which can be especially helpful during this transitional phase. It's also been shown to be helpful for supporting libido and overall energy levels.
Finally, Zizyphus is an herb that can be helpful for supporting sleep during perimenopause. This herb is known for its ability to calm the nervous system and promote restful sleep.
It's important to note that everyone's experience with perimenopause is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. You dont get a medal for putting up with extreme symptoms so visit your doctor if you just cant cope. It doesn’t mean you have failed to be the natural goddess you are.
At Misty Day Plant Potions, I offer a range of herbal remedies that can be helpful during perimenopause. As a herbalist and a woman of a certain age myself, I have created two herbal blends which I think are great for a woman entering that phase from mother to crone ( arrggh crone sounds so bad but its a magickal time to come back to yourself after so much giving to to children)
So, if you're experiencing perimenopause symptoms, know that there are natural ways to support your body during this time. Herbal medicine can be a powerful tool to help alleviate symptoms and support your overall well-being.
Try Lovers Potion for general symptoms of perimenopause or Moon Potion for sleep disturbance associated with hormonal changes. You could also go for Reishi if you have a touch of wanting to rip peoples heads off or maybe a tad of I want to drive off into the sunset and never return.
Its true that difficult journeys do lead to beautiful destinations. Just this journey can be tough.