Professor Per Bendix Jeppesen, who led the study, and the researchers at Aarhus University recruited 130 women with menopause symptoms; 60 were selected based on criteria of at least five severe hot flashes per day, plus blood tests. The participants were divided into two groups of 30 - one group drank 150 ml of red clover extract every day for 12 weeks, and the other group drank a placebo.
“After 12 weeks we tested again and were speechless about the data. There was a much greater effect than we had hoped for,” said Jeppesen's colleague, Ph.D. Max Norman Tandrup Lambert.
The women's hot flashes were measured using a "skin conductor," a device that is applied to the underside of the wrist that can determine the number and severity of hot flash episodes. Additionally, the participants underwent 24-hour blood pressure monitoring, and 24-hour symptom diaries and questionnaires.
Similarly, the effect of the extract on bone health were tested via so-called DXA scans of the spine and hips. All measurements were taken in the same way before and after 12 weeks of treatment. The study lasted for three months.
“It is the fermentation process of the red clover extract that makes the difference, as the lactic acid fermentation increases the bioavailability of the bioactive estrogen-like compounds (known as isoflavones or phytoestrogens) that red clover has in abundance,” explained Lambert.
Other symptoms and natural remedies
The menopause stage is primarily characterized by the onset of hot flashes and hormonal swings. Listed below are some other symptoms that may range from mild to moderate or severe:
- Disrupted sleep
- Headache
- Sweating
- Poor memory
- Joint pain
- Weight gain
- Decreased libido
- Vaginal dryness
- Anxiety
- Depression
Other risk factors linked to menopause are cardiovascular disease and negative changes to fat metabolism and profile.
HormonesBalance.com shares other herbal remedies besides red clover extract that may help relieve the symptoms of menopause. (Related: Natural menopause treatment with herbs, food remedies and homeopathy relieves cause of symptoms.)
For hot flashes and night sweats:
- Chaste tree -- Also known as Monk’s Pepper, this plant has anti-aphrodisiac properties. It can improve issues such as short and heavy cycles; falling asleep; painful, lumpy breasts; bloating; depression; headache; and constipation.
- Black cohosh -- This affects the human opiate receptors, which are the regulators of body temperature.
- Dong Quai -- This soothes period pains, hot flashes and decreased libido.
For anxiety and low mood:
- Ashwaganda -- This helps reduce anxiety, depression, and insomnia brought about by menopause.
- Maca -- This ancient Peruvian women’s tonic can help increase energy and mental clarity.
- Passionflower -- This promotes relaxation and is effective in reducing anxiety levels.
For heart and bone health:
- Motherwort -- This has been used to treat high blood pressure, racing heart and mild chest pain.
- Flaxseed -- This is a soluble fiber that binds to cholesterol and removes it. Additionally, it is high in omega-3 fatty acids and it has estrogen-detoxing properties.
- Fenugreek -- This can boost sexual arousal and desire, and raise estrogen levels.
- Alfalfa -- This is a rich source of calcium, magnesium, silica and boron, which are important components to building new bone and maintaining bone density and strength.
For more on women's wellness, visit WomensHealth.news.
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