Little-Known Perimenopausal Symptoms and Herbal Remedies

 

You are not crazy! There were many jokes about the "changes" life throws us ladies, but boy that still didn't prepare me for those actual changes! There are many symptoms associated with perimenopause, which is a transitional period leading up to menopause. Many women experience several lesser-known symptoms in addition to hot flashes and irregular periods. Here are some of them along with herbal remedies that may help manage these symptoms:

1. A worsening of allergies: Hormonal changes can lead to heightened sensitivity to allergens. According to mindbodygreen.com, there is an established link between estrogen and histamines. As our hormones do their dance, we may begin to notice that we are more prone to a worsening of allergies. My aunts have even spoken about developing allergies later in their lives. 

2. Bleeding gums: Hormonal fluctuations can make gums more prone to bleeding and inflammation. There is a reason "old" folk have dentures. Having the knowledge about dental issues and declining sex hormones, you can better prepare and maintain your oral health. Dry mouth and bad breath can also be a problem. Talk your dentist or find a dental professional that understands or specializes in dental issues due to aging.

3. Brittle Hair and Nails: Estrogen deficiency can lead to brittle hair and nails. Dry thinning hair and chipping and peeling nails can be caused by hormonal changes. Some women experience balding, hair texture changes, and what seems to be an inability to retain hair moisture. It may be hormonal. Working with a hormone professional may help.

4. Burning Mouth or Tongue: Hormonal shifts can affect oral sensory nerves, causing a burning sensation in the mouth or on the tongue. Just as bleeding gums seemed random, this may as well. But it is not. Many of us do not know how many body systems are controlled by what seems to be an unrelated hormone, but there are many. This body we wear is a finely tuned machine, and when any machine need s a tune up, it may not run optimally until it gets back in tune.

5. Changes in Body Odor: Hormonal imbalances can influence sweat glands and alter body odor. Yeah, old people do have a different smell, and guess what? We're getting old. Just like when boys hit puberty, their body odor kicks it up a notch, we are going through a reverse puberty, and those hormonal changes make our smell change. Your perfume may no longer give the sultry smell you love. you may find that you need a bit more deodorant, or you may smell unpleasant even after bathing. Those damn hormones!

6. Skin changes: We often experience skin changes and dryness. We may notice our skin may not look as supple as it once did or it may be dry or dull. If we are using good skincare practices and we still notice "flat-looking" skin, it may be a hormonal issue. Speaking to your doctor or a very knowledgeable skincare professional may be helpful.

Here are some possible natural helpers for the situation. 

Herbal Remedies for Perimenopause

1. Ginseng: Known for its ability to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue, ginseng can also help with sleep quality.

2. Black Cohosh: Often used to alleviate hot flashes and night sweats, black cohosh is a popular herbal remedy for menopause symptoms.

3. Soy: Rich in isoflavones, soy can help balance estrogen levels and reduce vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes.

4. Vitamin D: Essential for bone health, vitamin D supplements can help prevent osteoporosis during perimenopause.

5. Wild Yam: With potential estrogenic activity, wild yam supplements may mimic the effects of estrogen on the body.

6. Evening Primrose Oil: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, evening primrose oil can help with symptoms like breast tenderness and mood swings.

7. Red Clover: Contains isoflavones that can help manage menopause symptoms by mimicking estrogen in the body.

 

References and Sources

- This Is Perimenopause: "The Unusual Suspects: Uncommon Symptoms of Perimenopause" - [https://thisisperimenopause.com/symptoms/uncommon-symptoms-perimenopause/](https://thisisperimenopause.com/symptoms/uncommon-symptoms-perimenopause/)

- Healthline: "8 Natural Remedies for Perimenopause: Symptom Relief" - [https://www.healthline.com/health/natural-remedies-for-perimenopause](https://www.healthline.com/health/natural-remedies-for-perimenopause)

- Mayo Clinic Press: "Could this be menopause? Exploring lesser-known symptoms and what to do about them" - [https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/menopause/could-this-be-menopause-exploring-lesser-known-symptoms-and-what-to-do-about-them/](https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/menopause/could-this-be-menopause-exploring-lesser-known-symptoms-and-what-to-do-about-them/)