10 Best Herbal Creams For Hot Flashes

Herbal creams for hot flashes are natural topical treatments that aim to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of menopause, such as sudden heat waves, sweating, and skin flushing.

These creams often contain plant-based ingredients like sage, licorice root, and chamomile, which are believed to have cooling and soothing properties. While they may provide some relief, their effectiveness can vary among individuals, and scientific evidence supporting their use is limited. Some users report reduced frequency and intensity of hot flashes after consistent application, though results are not universally consistent.

It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using herbal creams, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.

1. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries to support hormonal balance in women.

Herbal creams containing vitex agnus-castus are formulated to help alleviate symptoms of hot flashes, a common issue during menopause. These creams are typically applied topically to the skin, where the active ingredients may be absorbed to support the body's natural regulatory processes. While some studies suggest that vitex may help regulate estrogen levels, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy for hot flashes.

As with any herbal product, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.

2. Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)

Cimicifuga racemosa, commonly known as black cohosh, is a herbal remedy often used in the form of creams to alleviate symptoms of hot flashes associated with menopause.

These creams are typically applied topically to the skin, where the active compounds may be absorbed to help regulate body temperature and reduce the intensity of hot flashes. While some studies suggest that black cohosh may have estrogen-like effects that support hormonal balance, the effectiveness of topical creams compared to oral formulations remains a topic of ongoing research. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using these creams, as they may interact with other medications or have side effects in certain individuals.

Overall, cimicifuga racemosa creams offer a natural alternative for managing hot flashes, though their long-term safety and efficacy require further scientific validation.

3. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often incorporated into herbal creams designed to alleviate the symptoms of hot flashes in menopausal women.

These creams typically contain essential oils extracted from the dried flowers of the plant, which are known for their calming and cooling properties. The soothing effects of lavender may help reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes by promoting relaxation and regulating body temperature. Some studies suggest that the aromatic compounds in lavender may influence the central nervous system, potentially modulating hormonal fluctuations.

While herbal creams can be a natural alternative for managing hot flashes, they should be used in conjunction with other lifestyle adjustments and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

4. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential to alleviate symptoms of hot flashes, which are common during menopause.

The active compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, may help regulate hormone levels and reduce inflammation, contributing to a calming effect on the body. Some herbal creams containing glycyrrhiza glabra are formulated to provide topical relief by soothing the skin and reducing the intensity of hot flashes when applied to the chest or neck. While research on its effectiveness for hot flashes is still emerging, many women find these creams to be a natural and complementary option to conventional treatments.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for those with hypertension or other health conditions.

5. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties.

While it is more widely recognized for its role in supporting immune health, some studies suggest that echinacea may also have a positive impact on reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes in menopausal women. Herbal creams containing echinacea purpurea are formulated to provide topical relief by combining the plant's active compounds with moisturizing ingredients. These creams are often used as a complementary therapy alongside other treatments for menopausal symptoms.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using echinacea-based products, as individual responses and potential interactions can vary.

6. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used for its therapeutic properties, and recent studies suggest that ginger-based herbal creams may offer relief for hot flashes experienced during menopause.

These creams typically contain concentrated extracts of fresh or dried ginger root, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and circulatory benefits. The warming effect of ginger may help regulate body temperature and reduce the intensity of sudden heat sensations associated with hot flashes. While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, some women report feeling a soothing effect when applying ginger herbal creams topically.

As a natural alternative, these creams may be appealing to those seeking non-hormonal options for managing menopausal symptoms.

7. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis)

Melissa officinalis, commonly known as lemon balm, is a herbal ingredient often used in creams to help alleviate the symptoms of hot flashes.

These creams typically contain a combination of lemon balm extract and other soothing botanicals that may help reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes. The cooling properties of lemon balm are believed to provide a calming effect on the body, which can help ease the discomfort associated with menopausal hot flashes. Some studies suggest that topical application of lemon balm may have a mild calming effect on the nervous system, which could contribute to its effectiveness in managing hot flashes.

While more research is needed, many women find these herbal creams to be a natural and soothing alternative to conventional treatments for hot flashes.

8. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its potential to alleviate symptoms of hot flashes, which are common during menopause.

While it is more widely recognized for its antidepressant properties, some studies suggest that it may help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes by modulating hormonal imbalances. Herbal creams containing Hypericum perforatum are applied topically and may provide localized relief by soothing the skin and reducing the sensation of heat. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before using these creams, as they can interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone.

Overall, while Hypericum perforatum herbal creams show promise, more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness and safety for treating hot flashes.

9. Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its potential health benefits, including its possible role in alleviating hot flashes.

While scientific research on its effectiveness for hot flashes is limited, some studies suggest that the active compound silymarin may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that could help regulate hormonal imbalances. Herbal creams containing silybum marianum are often marketed as natural alternatives to conventional treatments for menopausal symptoms, though their efficacy can vary. Users should consult with a healthcare provider before using these creams, especially if they are taking other medications or have underlying health conditions.

Overall, while silybum marianum may offer some relief, more clinical trials are needed to confirm its safety and effectiveness for managing hot flashes.

10. Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Equisetum arvense, also known as horsetail, is a plant commonly used in herbal remedies for its high concentration of silica and other minerals.

Herbal creams containing Equisetum arvense are often formulated to support hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes. These creams are typically applied topically to the skin, where they may help soothe irritation and provide a cooling effect. While some studies suggest potential benefits, more research is needed to fully understand their efficacy and safety.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for individuals with known allergies or medical conditions.