Psycho Sensei

A really interesting site called www.yourhotflashes.com has an area called "the crone zone" which I think is QUITE interesting. They offer a pre-menopausal tea that contains Wild Yam, Raspberry, Chasteberry, Sage and Alfalfa. I don't know what "Chasteberry" is, per se but I'll find out eventually.

Another site with information from the Jean Hailes Organization says:

Herbal Remedies for Use in Perimenopause

Hops

Hops may be useful for hot flushes associated with anxiety or stress. It may also be useful for associated insomnia (sleeplessness). Warning: If severe depression is experienced, it is strongly recommended that Hops should not be taken.

Passionflower, Chamomile, or Valerian

Passionflower, Chamomile, or Valerian in the form of a herbal tea or tablet may also be considered to help induce sleep when sleep is disturbed by night sweats.

However, in some people, Valerian has a stimulating effect, rather than inducing sleep.

Panax Ginseng

Panax Ginseng, a traditional Chinese herb, increases the body's ability to cope with physical and mental stress. The Ginsengs are useful for hot flushes that are aggravated by fatigue and overwork.

Panax Ginseng increases vitality and physical performance and may enable people to obtain their physical peak. It may be useful as part of the treatment for night sweats.

Warning: Panax Ginseng should only be taken short term, two to four weeks at a time and under the supervision of a herbalist or naturopath. It can raise blood pressure and therefore should be avoided if you suffer from hypertension. It should never be taken during an acute infection (as this may worsen the condition), or with high doses of caffeine.

Siberian Ginseng

Like Panax Ginseng this herb may improve stamina and vitality during times of increased physical and mental demands, though it is generally considered to be less stimulating. It can be taken for a longer time than Panax, over several months.

Warning: It should not be taken during acute infections.

Dong Quai

Dong Quai may be useful for hot flushes associated with fatigue and overwork.

Licorice

Licorice, may also be used for night sweats.

(The herb Licorice root should not be confused with confectionery liquorice. Licorice should not be taken long term or by people with high blood pressure.)

Linseed or Flaxseed

Linseed or flaxseed these have been shown to reduce vaginal dryness. The correct dose for ground linseed is 25g, or about two heaped dessertspoons, which can be sprinkled on breakfast cereals or added to smoothies.

Lavender

Lavender, as a herb (rather than as an essential oil), is used to help to clear depression. There are many varieties of Lavender, therefore it is essential that Lavender be prescribed to ensure the correct variety. It is a strengthening tonic to the nervous system, and is useful for headaches and migraines, especially associated with menopause

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm, used as a herbal tea, has traditionally been considered to 'lighten depression'. It helps relieve tension and stress, and is easy to grow and have regularly as a home remedy.

Oat Straw

Oat Straw 'feeds the nervous system'. Women should be encouraged to eat oats in the form of porridge or muesli to gain benefit.

Wholehealthmd.com gives the following advice:

Perimenopause

Younger women who are beginning to experience symptoms of menopause may want to control their symptoms through diet. Foods high in calcium, magnesium ,vitamin E , and phytoestrogens , such as soy isoflavones , may be beneficial for reducing symptoms of perimenopause as well as preventing the onset of osteoporosis. Consuming iron -rich foods and foods high in vitamin C may help ease symptoms of perimenopause.

So the bottom line is - she might want to find some midwives who have the best clue in the medical community as to natural remedies, and making sure we don't suffer unduly. Although I'm seriously considering studying for a real degree in herbology (gee, would that be a "great work?") I am not currently an expert in the subject. Some real MDs are actually cool too...

Remember, this is not medical advice. It is not legal advice. I am not a doctor, nor do I play one on TV. Eat more broccoli. Film at 11 :-)