Phytoestrogens - Natural estrogens from medicinal herbs

Plant estrogenic substances or "phytoestrogens" are components of medicinal herbs with historical uses for conditions which are now treated by synthetic estrogens. Menopausal women commonly receive estrogens to help allay the hot flashes, nausea, bone loss and other symptoms of the decrease in the body's own natural hormone level. While generally effective, both synthetic and natural estrogens pose significant health risks. They have been shown to increase the risk of cancer, gallbladder disease, and thromboembolic disease (strokes, heart attacks, etc.). Phytoestrogens are not associated with these side effects.

Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)

Phytoestrogens are capable of exerting estrongenic effects, although its activity compared to estrogen is only 1:400. Because of this low activity, phytoestrogens have an alternative action on estrogen effects. If estrogen levels are low, they will cause an increase in estrogen effect. If estrogen levels are high, phytoestrogens adhere to estrogen receptor binding sites thereby competing with estrogen. This acts to decrease estrogen effects.

Because of the alterative action of phytoestrogens, it is common to find the same plant recommended for conditions of estrogen excess (like the premenstrual syndrome) as well as conditions of estrogen deficiency (like menopause, menstrual abnormalities.)

Many of these herbs have been termed "uterine tonics". The uterine tonics in this formula are designed primarily to lessen the symptoms of menopause. However, they may be equally effective in treating a variety of menstrual disorders as well. These herbs possess both proven estrogenic activity and a long historical use in treating various female complaints. In addition, a hesperidins/ascorbic acid complex is included in this formula. This complex has been shown to relieve menopausal hot flashes in a controlled clinical trial.