The use, mechanism of action, and adverse effects of Cimicifuga racemosa, Angelica sinensis, Vitex agnus-castus, and wild Mexican yam are outlined. - GreenMedInfo Summary
Phytoestrogens: a viable option?
Am J Med Sci. 2002 Oct ;324(4):185-8. PMID: 12385490
Department of Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson 39216-4505, USA. [email protected]
Estrogen replacement therapy is one of the most commonly prescribed medicines in the United States by traditional medical professionals. Over the past decade, the market for complementary/ alternative therapies for hormone replacement has dramatically increased. Women are seeking more"natural"alternatives to treat menopausal symptoms. Well-designed randomized clinical trials are often lacking, as is the information on efficacy and safety. This article will review several popular herbal therapies for menopausal symptoms including phytoestrogens, black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), dong quai (Angelica sinensis), chast tree (Vitex agnus-castus), and wild Mexican yam. Their use, mechanism of action, and adverse effects are outlined.