Rheum rhaponticum (ext)
R. rhaponticum, also known as false rhubarb, is a plant native to Europe that is widely used for managing menopause symptoms. ERr 731 is the named and standardized extract from this plant that is used in various natural menopause support products, such as Estrovera®. Clinical studies have shown that ERr 731, and other R. rhaponticum extracts, effectively relieves menopause symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, night sweats, low energy, and irritability.8,9 Research suggests that these powerful effects are due to its ability to interact with estrogen receptors.10
Indole-3-carbinol
Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a powerful phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and Brussels sprouts. It has long been recognized for its ability to regulate estrogenic effects on tissues and organs.11 I3C has the ability to increase the expression of the CYP1A1 gene, which codes for an enzyme that converts estrone to 2-hydroxyestrone; 2-hydroxyestrone has been shown to be protective against estrogen-dependent cancers.12 Additionally, I3C also helps to downregulate genes such as pS2 and cathepsin-D which are activated by estrogen receptors.13 Alternatively, I3C works alongside BRCA-1, a tumor suppressor, to mitigate the effect of estrogen receptor-related expression, thereby helping to reduce the development of cancerous tumors.14 Through these effects, I3C may help avoid the development of estrogen-dependent cancers and counteract as the body-wide effects of estrogen dominance.
Diindolylmethane
Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a derivative of indole-3-carbinol and may be even more potent than I3C in its ability to protect against estrogen-dependent cancers. It has been reported that DIM inhibits cellular growth when DNA damage has occurred, thereby mitigating the risk of developing cancers.11 Like I3C, DIM works in conjunction with the BRCA-1 to suppress tumor growth.14 Additionally, DIM provides a strong protection against prostate cancer cells and has been used as an adjunctive treatment alongside primary prostate cancer therapies.15
Hops (ext) (Humulus lupulus)
The hops plant, scientifically known as Humulus lupulus L., has been used throughout much of human history as an herbal remedy, but it is most commonly known for its role in producing beer. While beer itself has many undesirable health effects, the hops plant offers numerous health benefits. Studies indicate that hops can protect against a wide variety of cancers, including hormone-dependent cancers. Additionally, hops leaves have been used to help manage painful periods, and the humulone compound in hops is known for its ability to improve or even reverse insomnia, a common and disruptive symptom of menopause.16,17
Angelica gigas Nakai (ext)
A. gigas is an important plant used in traditional medicine in China, Korea, and other Asian countries. Historically, it has been used to manage hormone imbalances in women. More recent research has shown that it effectively protects against osteoporosis, a common and problematic side effect of menopause.18 It has also been shown to boost sperm production through a suspected interaction with the STAR gene.19
Angelica sinensis (ext)
A. sinensis, commonly known as female ginseng, is a powerful herb native to East Asia. Recent data shows that consumption of A. sinensis prevents osteoporosis to the same efficacy as estrogen replacement therapy.20 It helps to protect bone health by upregulating the expression of the PPARγ gene and downregulating the expression of iNOS, SOD and CAT genes.21 It has also been shown to promote the production of red blood cells and platelets, which can be particularly beneficial for those who suffer from heavy menstrual periods.22 Recent research suggests that A. sinensis can regulate the healthy expression of CYP17A1 and CYP19A1, which may help prevent the hyperandrogenism symptoms associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).23
Schisandra chinensis (ft)
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, S. chinensis significantly improved symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, sweating, and heart palpitations.24 Some studies suggest that this herb may be beneficial for erectile dysfunction for men who do not respond to, or want to avoid, mainstream treatment options.25 A compound found in S. chinensis known as gomisin, increases the expression of the CYP11A1 and CYP17A1 genes and proteins. This upregulation can lead to an increase in testosterone and estradiol due to the increased amounts of their precursor molecules.26,27
Chrysin
Chrysin is a natural polyphenol found in fruit, honey, and bee propolis. It modulates hormone production by inhibiting the aromatase enzyme that converts androgens into estrogens. Powerful benefits, such as alleviating symptoms related to benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and supporting the treatment of estrogen-dependent diseases, have been observed.28,29 It has also been shown to improve depressive symptoms associated with hypothyroidism.30
Cynanchum wilfordii (ext)
C. wilfordii is an herb used in traditional Eastern medicine. It has been shown to alleviate hot flashes associated with menopause and may serve as a good alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for individuals who are not good candidates for HRT.31 Additionally, C. wilfordii can help improve other menopause-related complications, such as bone resorption and osteoporosis.32
Phlomis umbrosa (ext)
P. umbrosa, also known as shady Jerusalem sage, is native to Central and Eastern China and Korea. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study, P. umbrosa, when taken along with A. gigas and C. wilfordii, significantly improved menopause-related symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, depressed mood, vertigo, vaginal dryness, pain, and insomnia.33
Bupleurum falcatum (Chai Hu Rt)
B. falcatum, also known as sickle-leaf hare’s ear, is a species of flowering plant that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years.34 When taken in high concentrations, it has been shown to help reduce bone loss and its related complications associated with menopause.35
Paeonia lactiflora (Bai Shao Rt)
P. lactiflora, commonly known as Bai Shao or White Peony, is a plant frequently used in traditional Chinese medicine. Studies show that supplementing with P. lactiflora can improve ovarian function and may help alleviate complications associated with ovarian diseases.36 Additionally, P. lactiflora has been shown to be particularly beneficial for easing dysmenorrhea, or disruptively painful menstruation.37
Actractylodes (Bai Zhu)
Bai Zhu is the common name for the powerful plant species Atractylodes macrocephala. The root of this plant is used in traditional Chinese medicine and offers numerous physiological benefits. Studies show that A. macrocephala can increase serum estradiol and osteocalcin levels, which helps in preventing osteoporosis.38
Poria cocos (Fu ling)
Poria cocos is a mushroom that grows on decaying wood and is a powerful natural health aid commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine. Polysaccharides unique to P. cocos help reverse inflammation associated with chronic prostatitis. These polysaccharides also play a role in regulating sex hormones such as testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and estradiol. Additionally, studies show that the consumption of P. cocos can increase microbiome diversity, which is being increasingly recognized as a crucial factor in optimizing the health and function of all body systems.39
Vitex agnus-castus (ext)
V. agnus-castus, also known as chasteberry, is a plant native to the Mediterranean. Clinical studies have shown that V. agnus-castus can relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) such as depression, irritability, anxiety, breast pain, fatigue, and headache. V. agnus-castus has also been shown to alleviate symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, which includes PMS symptoms along with anger, rage, and sometimes suicidal ideation. Some studies suggest it may even be as effective as prescription medications in managing these conditions. Its effects are thought to be due to its ability to activate dopamine and certain opioid receptors. It is also reported to help manage excessive prolactin levels by inhibiting prolactin release in the pituitary.40–42
Picea abies (ext)
P. abies is a spruce tree native to Northern, Eastern, and Central Europe. It contains high concentrations of the powerful polyphenol, lignan 7-hydroxymatairesinol. This molecule is converted in the intestine to enterolactone, which exhibits mild estrogenic activity. This makes P. abies a potentially helpful alternative for managing intolerable menopause symptoms in individuals who are not suitable candidates for hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Additionally, due to these mild estrogenic effects, P. abies may offer protective benefits against prostate cancer.43,44
L-Leucine
L-leucine is an essential amino acid that is required for various necessary bodily functions. One important effect of leucine supplementation is its ability to enhance the body’s response to the hormone leptin. Leptin interacts with GLP-1 to control hunger cues by producing feelings of satiety and reducing appetite. Weight gain and metabolic changes are common consequences of hormonal shifts associated with aging and menopause. It is suggested that leucine may help regulate these frustrating side effects.45