Traditional Chinese Medicine and Menopause

June 15, 2006--Many women experiencing hot flashes, night sweats and other uncomfortable symptoms of menopause can get relief from some common Chinese herbal remedies that have been used for centuries.

One in particular, called Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan, is composed of eight Chinese herbs. It is frequently used by licensed providers of acupuncture and Asian medicine to address "change of life" symptoms. Chinese Foxglove and Cornelian Cherry are two components of this traditional remedy. Often dispensed in a tea, pills or small granules, Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan is just one of many possibilities for women seeking alternatives or supplemental care to conventional Western care.

Traditional Chinese medicine offers acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, often used in combination. In addition to herbal care, acupuncture can address pain, nausea, fatigue and other symptoms of hormonal imbalance affecting menstruating and menopausal women.

In addition to menopause treatment, many women in the United States are increasingly using acupuncture and Asian medicine for additional gynecological problems, including fertility support. To find a licensed provider, always look for the "L.Ac." credential, which stands for Licensed Acupuncturist.

Writer: Kyo Mitchell, doctor of acupuncture and Oriental medicine, Bastyr University

Republished with permission from Seattle Post-Intelligencer