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As a woman ages, her body experiences a number
of changes. Many of these changes are the result of shifting hormone
levels. This leads to changes in the menstrual cycle and eventually
culminates in menopause with it many uncomfortable side effects.
Vitabase Woman’s Support is a combination
of natural herbs and supplements designed to naturally support hormone
levels and alleviate many of the symptoms a woman may experience as her
body changes.
Black Cohosh has a history of use
for women’s health issues dating back to Native Americans. Today it
finds widespread application in gynecological issues from menstruation to
menopause. It is particularly useful for menopausal symptoms due to its
estrogenic effect on the body.
Menopausal symptoms vary from woman to
woman but among the most common are hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia,
irritability, anxiety, depression, headaches, loss of libido, weight gain
and breast tenderness. Numerous studies over the past 40 years have helped
establish the efficacy of black cohosh as a treatment for menopausal
symptoms. A well-known 1982 study of over 600 women found 80% experienced
relief from such symptoms as hot flashes, perspiration, irritability,
heart palpitations and depression after taking 80 mg of black cohosh daily
over six to eight weeks. Common emotional problems such as teariness and
anxiety also responded favorably. A 1998 study by the University of
Bridgeport in Connecticut concluded black cohosh was a safe alternative to
estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) for women where ERT is contraindicated
or declined. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology has
recommended the use of black cohosh for menopausal symptoms such as sleep
disturbances, mood swings and hot flashes. Due to the possible estrogenic
effects of black cohosh, women with a personal or family history of breast
cancer may wish to avoid using black cohosh until research further
delineates the effect on breast tissue.
Dong Quai has been used extensively
in Chinese herbal medicine as a natural remedy for treating menstrual
problems. Dong quai is believed to increase blood flow to the uterus and
to have muscle relaxant properties. Chasteberry has also been used for
many years to treat PMS. Also known as Vitex, recent studies indicate it
may be useful in restoring a normal estrogen to progesterone balance
easing PMS and its symptoms. Red Clover has been used for centuries to
help relieve hot flashes while Sage is regarded as a natural way to ease
night sweats. Licorice is commonly known as a food item but scientists
have also identified estrogen- and progesterone-like qualities.
Mexican Yam has long been considered
an herb to help with women’s issues. In 1936, it was discovered to
contain diosginin, a chemical used to create synthetic progesterone and
the hormone DHEA. It is sometimes recommended for hormone replacement
therapy during menopause. False Unicorn helps treat menstrual pain and
irregularities. Squaw Vine was used for many years by Native Americans for
irregular menstruation. Blessed Thistle’s emmenagogue action (promotes
menstrual discharge) aids in balancing of female hormones. Red Raspberry
contains a number of beneficial components including flavonoids, tannin
and the minerals magnesium, iron, manganese and calcium. It has been used
for women’s health in regulating menstrual cycles as well as for
gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular health and respiratory
problems. Raspberries have been used for centuries by women to help during
pregnancy.
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