Menopause Problems
Menopause is a natural phenomenon. The body stops producing female hormones, and menstruation ceases. In addition to their reproductive and other functions, female hormones are necessary for regulation of bone metabolism. That is why some women may end up with osteoporosis. This is particularly true of vata and pitta individuals. (See “Osteoporosis” for suggestions on preventing this condition.)
Some women may experience menopausal syndrome, characterized by hot flashes, retention of water, and mood swings. Some may have insomnia. The following recommendations will help you move through this natural stage of your life gracefully and comfortably.
DIETARY GUIDELINES. The main dietary recommendation for menopause is to follow the vata-pacifying diet (see chapter 8). This is true for all constitutions but is especially crucial for vata types.
ALOE VERA. Taking fresh aloe vera gel (1 teaspoon 3 times a day) will help prevent and relieve uncomfortable symptoms.
MINERAL SUPPLEMENTS. It is important to take some mineral supplements. Specifically, take a formula of calcium, magnesium, and zinc that provides a daily amount approximately as follows:
calcium
1,200 mg.
magnesium
600 mg.
zinc
60 mg.
Natural Hormone Sources
It has become commonplace for modern medicine to prescribe hormone replacement therapy for menopausal women. Ayurveda has long recognized the value of female rejuvenating herbs at this stage of life, to prevent and/or alleviate menopausal syndrome. However, these herbs, rather than being a synthetic formula, provide your body with natural food precursors of estrogen and progesterone.
The herbs shatavari and wild yam (which is similar to the Ayurvedic herb vidari) are most effective. A mixture of the two will be strengthening and healing to your system.
vidari or wild yam ½ teaspoon
shatavari ½ teaspoon
Take this formula twice a day after lunch and dinner during the entire menopausal stage, with a few sips of warm water or ½ cup of aloe vera juice.
Take these supplements at night. They should help with menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, and they can also help prevent osteoporosis.
FOR HOT FLASHES. Try drinking 1 cup of pomegranate juice with 1 teaspoon rock candy powder or organic sugar and 5 to 10 drops of lime juice. You can drink this 2 or 3 times per day, as needed to relieve hot flashes.
FOR VAGINAL DRYNESS. To alleviate vaginal dryness, you can pour some sesame oil on a piece of sterile cotton, mold it into a tamponlike shape, and insert it into the vagina at night. Use a sanitary pad to catch any leakage of the oil. (Consider tying a clean thread or string to the cotton to help you remove it in the morning.)
HELPFUL YOGA POSTURES. Certain yoga asanas are beneficial. Do the Sun Salutation at least 12 cycles per day, as well as postures that will strengthen the lower abdominal area, such as the Lotus, Locust, Bow, Boat, and Spinal Twist. Leg Lifts and the Chest-Knee pose are also helpful. (See appendix 4.)