Menopause: Most Effective Supplements

Menopause marks the end of the reproductive period in women, generally around the age of 50. It is characterized by the cessation of menstruation and ovulation, as well as a drastic decrease in sex hormones produced by the ovaries, notably estrogen and progesterone. This natural process is accompanied by numerous physiological changes and various symptoms.

Hormonal Mechanism

Menopause is defined by the cessation of menstruation, ovarian hormone secretions (estrogen and progesterone), and ovulation. This phenomenon, consequent to the exhaustion of the ovarian follicular reserve, is accompanied by major hormonal upheavals responsible for many symptoms. At the heart of the female hormonal system is cholesterol, the precursor of steroid hormones. It is transformed into pregnenolone, then into progesterone and estrogen (estradiol, estrone, and estriol) within the ovaries and adrenal glands. Estrogens play a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle, maintaining bone density, cardiovascular protection, and lipid metabolism. Progesterone, stabilizes the uterine lining after ovulation and helps to regulate sleep phases, while modulating the effects of estrogens. During menopause, the ovaries gradually decrease their production of sexual hormones, leading to a marked hormonal imbalance. Estrogens, particularly estradiol, decrease, causing a compensatory rise in FSH and LH levels secreted by the pituitary gland. This hormonal deficit has systemic repercussions: the risk of osteoporosis increases; as do the risks of hypertension and atherosclerosis; and hot flashes occur.

Hot Flashes: A Well-Known Symptom

Hot flashes are among the most common manifestations of menopause, affecting up to 75% of postmenopausal women. They are characterized by a sudden sensation of intense heat spreading through the chest, neck, and face, often accompanied by redness, palpitations, and sweating. These episodes generally last from 30 seconds to a few minutes and can significantly disrupt sleep and quality of life. The pathophysiology of hot flashes is not fully understood, but estrogen deficiency plays a major role. This deficit leads to a decrease in endorphin and catecholestrogen levels, substances involved in thermoregulation at the hypothalamus. In response, the hypothalamus releases more serotonin and norepinephrine, disrupting the thermoregulatory centers and causing a rapid vascular dilation responsible for hot flashes. Some studies also suggest a role for norepinephrine in triggering these symptoms. Indeed, the increase in norepinephrine is linked to the initiation of hot flashes, and this increase is associated with an estrogen deficit since they modulate alpha-2 adrenergic receptors. Since alpha-2 receptors in the human brain are inhibitory presynaptic receptors, their blockade increases the release of norepinephrine.

Ailments Associated with Menopause

Menopause is accompanied by various ailments that vary in intensity from one woman to another. These symptoms stem from hormonal deficiency, especially estrogens and progesterone, and affect several aspects of health:  Hot flashes: These episodes of intense, often sudden heat are frequent. They disrupt daily life and sleep, potentially causing chronic fatigue.  Vaginal dryness: Decreased estrogen leads to mucosal atrophy, causing itching, burning sensations, and pain during intercourse.  Sleep disorders: Insomnia or nocturnal awakenings are often linked to hot flashes or night sweats.  Fatigue and low energy: Often associated with sleep disturbances, they can also result from metabolic changes.  Mood disorders: Irritability, anxiety, and mild to moderate depression are frequent, amplified by hormonal fluctuations.  Skin and hair changes: The skin becomes drier and thinner, and hair may lose its density.  Joint pain: Decreased estrogens promote inflammation and joint pain, often felt in the hands and knees.  Cardiovascular disorders: The decline in estrogens increases the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.  Osteoporosis: Decreased bone density leads to a higher risk of fractures.

Protocols to Alleviate Menopausal Ailments

To relieve various ailments related to menopause, protocols primarily rely on the use of plants and supplements adapted to the specific needs of women. Hot flashes and night sweats, which disrupt quality of life, can be alleviated with plants like sage, known for its antiperspirant properties, or black cohosh (cimicifuga), which acts on estrogen receptors without directly altering hormone levels. Fatigue and sleep disorders, common during this period, can be alleviated by rhodiola rosea, an adaptogenic plant that improves stress resistance, and griffonia simplicifolia, which promotes serotonin production for restorative sleep. Gemmotherapy, especially with young shoots of bilberry or raspberry, acts on the nervous and hormonal systems to soothe these symptoms. For women suffering from vaginal dryness, borage oil or evening primrose oil, rich in essential fatty acids, help restore mucosal hydration. Yam (dioscorea), containing "progesterone-like" compounds, also contributes to rebalancing hormone levels, providing significant relief. Joint pain, common during menopause, can be reduced thanks to the anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric. Combined with magnesium, this protocol improves joint comfort and reduces muscle tension. Mood disorders, like mild depression or memory loss, can be improved by St. John's Wort, effective for mood stabilization, or by supplements such as zinc and B-complex vitamins, which support cognitive functions. Finally, to protect bones and the cardiovascular system, supplements such as soy (isoflavones), which reduce bone loss and improve heart health, along with omega-3s, are recommended. The latter play a key role in preventing cardiovascular diseases often linked to menopause.