Exploring Herbal Remedies for Menopause: With Beth Gehring
Menopause is a significant life stage for women, often accompanied by a variety of symptoms that can impact daily life. While medical solutions are widely discussed, holistic options such as herbal remedies offer alternative approaches to managing menopause symptoms. Beth Gehring, a seasoned herbalist and health coach, shares her expertise on the role of herbs in supporting women through menopause.
Understanding Herbalism
Herbalism involves the use of plant materials, known as herbs, which can be utilized for culinary, medicinal, and craft purposes. An herb is essentially a useful plant that can be ingested or applied topically. Beth describes her role as an educator, stating, "I'm an educator, is what I do. I educate and I support."
The Role of Herbs in Menopause
Beth's personal journey with menopause highlighted the potential of herbs in alleviating symptoms such as mood swings, hot flashes, and palpitations. She emphasizes the importance of considering the whole person - emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects - exploring herbal remedies. Common herbs like peppermint and sage are noted for their digestive and cooling properties, respectively.
Key Herbs for Menopause
Peppermint: Aids digestion and can be consumed as tea.
Sage: Known for its cooling effects, particularly useful during hot flashes.
Motherwort: Supports heart health and can help with palpitations.
Violet Leaves: Assist in reducing inflammation.
Beth shares, "I like to teach people about the simple herbs, the ones we can grow, the ones we find."
Safety and Precautions
While herbs offer natural benefits, it's crucial to approach them with caution. Beth advises consulting with healthcare professionals, particularly pharmacists, to understand potential contraindications. She notes, "Doctors don't get as much of this education as the pharmacists do."
Essential Oils and Their Uses
Essential oils, derived through steam distillation, are primarily used in aromatherapy. Oils like chamomile and rose geranium are beneficial for relaxation and managing menopausal symptoms. However, they should be diluted with carrier oils before topical application to avoid skin irritation. Beth warns, "Very few of these you can, you should apply directly to the skin."
Lifestyle and Dietary Considerations
Beth advocates for a holistic approach that includes dietary changes. Reducing alcohol, caffeine, red meat, and sugar can significantly impact overall well-being during menopause. She encourages women to be their own advocates, stating, "The most elegant prescription really is at the end of your fork."
Getting Started with Herbal Remedies
For those interested in exploring herbal remedies, Beth recommends starting with reputable sources and engaging with experienced herbalists. Learning about herbs through planting and observing them can provide valuable insights. It's important to balance herbal use with any existing medications and consult healthcare providers to ensure safety.
Conclusion
Herbal remedies offer a complementary approach to managing menopause symptoms, empowering women to explore natural solutions tailored to their individual needs. By integrating herbs into their wellness journey, women can navigate menopause with greater ease and confidence.
