Mindful Menopause

What Is Menopause

Menopause is the time that marks the end of your menstrual cycle. It’s diagnosed after you’ve gone 12 months without a menstrual period. Menopause can happen in your 40s or 50s, but the average age is 51 in the United States

The symptoms of menopause can vary from person to person, but some common symptoms include:

1. Hot flashes: Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by flushing and sweating.
2. Night sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep.
3. Irregular periods: Changes in the frequency and duration of menstrual cycles.
4. Vaginal dryness: Decreased lubrication in the vagina, leading to discomfort or pain during sex.
5. Mood swings: Emotional changes, including irritability, anxiety, and depression.
6. Sleep disturbances: Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
7. Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy.
8. Weight gain: Some women may experience weight gain, especially around the abdomen.
9. Memory problems: Difficulty with memory and concentration.
10. Loss of libido: Decreased sexual desire or interest.

It’s important to note that not all women will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity can vary. If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management.

Understanding that menopause is part of the female life cycle, one can decide to be mindful of it, and consciously engage in diets and activities that can help alleviate the challenges that come with menopause.

Cohosh Root In FemeBOLD

Specifically referring to Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) and sometimes also referring to Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides), is a popular herbal remedy used in traditional medicine, particularly by women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Black Cohosh is the species most commonly studied and used for menopausal symptoms. Some potential benefits of Cohosh root, particularly Black Cohosh, on menopausal symptoms include

Improvement in Mood and Sleep
- Menopausal women often experience mood swings, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Black Cohosh has been suggested to have mild sedative and anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) properties, which may help improve mood and promote better sleep quality.

Alleviation of Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
- Black Cohosh is often used to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes and night sweats, which are common symptoms experienced by women during menopause. Some studies suggest that Black Cohosh may have estrogenic effects or interact with serotonin receptors, helping to regulate body temperature and reduce these symptoms

Relief from Vaginal Dryness
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort are common symptoms of menopause due to declining estrogen levels. Black Cohosh has been used to alleviate vaginal dryness by potentially modulating estrogen levels or influencing vaginal mucosal tissue.
Bone Health
- Some studies suggest that Black Cohosh may have a protective effect on bone health by inhibiting bone resorption (breakdown) and promoting bone formation. This could be beneficial for menopausal women who are at increased risk of osteoporosis due to declining estrogen levels
Reduction in Anxiety and Depression
- Menopausal transitions are often accompanied by psychological symptoms such as anxiety and depression. Black Cohosh has been suggested to have mood-stabilizing effects, potentially reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression in some women.