What are Natural Estrogens?
Natural estrogens are compounds found in plants and foods that have similar effects on the body as the hormone estrogen. Natural estrogens, also known as phytoestrogens, are thought to act as weak estrogens in the body to help balance hormones and provide some of the benefits of estrogen, without the risks associated with traditional hormone replacement therapy. Natural estrogens are found in a variety of foods, including legumes, nuts, and seeds, as well as in some herbs and supplements.
What are the Benefits of Natural Estrogens?
Natural estrogens are thought to have a number of potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, improving bone health, and lowering cholesterol. They may also help to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast and prostate cancer. In addition, natural estrogens may help to reduce symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes and night sweats.
What are the Best Natural Estrogens?
There are a number of natural estrogens available over the counter. Some of the most popular and effective natural estrogens include red clover, black cohosh, dong quai, and soy. These natural estrogens are available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, tinctures, and teas. It is important to talk to a doctor before taking any natural estrogen supplements, as they may interact with other medications or have potential side effects.
Red Clover
Red clover is a flowering plant that is rich in phytoestrogens. It is believed to act as a weak estrogen in the body and is used to help reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and other symptoms associated with menopause. Red clover is often taken in supplement form, but it can also be brewed into a tea. It is important to note that red clover can interact with some medications, such as blood thinners, so it is important to talk to a doctor before taking it.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is an herb that is native to North America and is thought to have a number of potential health benefits. It is believed to act as a weak estrogen in the body and is used to help reduce menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats. It is available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, and tinctures. It is important to note that black cohosh may interact with some medications, so it is important to talk to a doctor before taking it.
Dong Quai
Dong quai is an herb native to China and is used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is thought to act as a weak estrogen in the body and is used to help reduce menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats. It is available in a variety of forms, including capsules, tablets, and tinctures. It is important to note that dong quai may interact with some medications, so it is important to talk to a doctor before taking it.
Soy
Soy is a plant that is rich in phytoestrogens. It is believed to act as a weak estrogen in the body and is used to help reduce menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats. Soy is often taken in supplement form, but it can also be consumed in foods such as tofu, tempeh, and edamame. It is important to note that soy can interact with some medications, such as blood thinners, so it is important to talk to a doctor before taking it.
Conclusion
Natural estrogens, such as red clover, black cohosh, dong quai, and soy, are available over the counter and may have a number of potential health benefits. However, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking any natural estrogen supplements, as they may interact with other medications or have potential side effects.