Calcium- Calcium is the mineral in bodies that make up
bones and keep them strong. 99% of a body's calcium is stored in the bones and
teeth. The remaining 1% is in the blood and soft tissues and is essential for
life and health. Without this tiny 1% of calcium, muscles would not contract
correctly, blood would not clot, and nerves would not carry messages. When the
intake of calcium is not sufficient, the body takes what it needs from the
bones. If this continues, the bones become weak and break easily. This leads to
the crippling bone disease known as osteoporosis. Approximately 25 million women
have a degree of osteoporosis, and it will effect 1/3 to 1/2 of all
post-menopausal women.
Ginkgo Biloba- Ginkgo biloba has been widely
studied for it's effect on improving mental focus and
concentration. Scientific research has shown that Ginkgo
biloba improves blood flow to the brain and enhances
alertness.
Soy
- Soy contains protein, lecithin, vitamins, minerals and
isoflavones. Isoflavones have been shown to be protective
against heart disease. In 1999, the FDA, convinced by
research, began allowing manufacturers to use a health claim
on food products that contain soy protein, linking them with
reduced risk of heart disease. Recent research has also
shown that genistein, a constituent of soy, suppresses the
production of harmful stress proteins in cells. These stress
proteins normally help cancer cells survive.
Black Cohosh- The root of Black Cohosh is a long
time Native American remedy. Today it is used to combat
menstrual pain and to help ease hot flashes and night sweats
associated with menopause. Recent research has confirmed
it's effectiveness in reducing these hot flashes and night
sweats.
Chastetree-
Chastetree has been well known since ancient times. Today it
is recognized for it's effects on the female menstrual
cycle. It has been studied for relief from the symptoms of
PMS and in helping to balance progesterone and estrogen
production by the ovaries. Because of these properties it
has been found to be useful for easing menopausal symptoms.
Cranberry- Cranberry, either in pill form or
juice, is often used to treat urinary-tract infections and
may be useful in dissolving kidney stones or gallstones.
Recent studies have confirmed it's effectiveness in fighting
urinary-tract infections.
Dong Quai- This is also known as dang-gui in
traditional Chinese medicine and is often referred to as the
female ginseng. It has been used for centuries to help
painful menstruation and hot flashes associated with
menopause. It has also been used for both men and women to
help lower high blood pressure.
Wild Yam- Wild Yam has traditionally been taken
to relieve menstrual, ovarian and labor pains. This herbs
combination of anti-inflammatory and anti-spasmodic actions
make it extremely useful for relieving these types of
symptoms. An extract of wild yam has also been shown to
lower triglycerides and raise the level of 'good' HDL
cholesterol.