10 Best Herbal Creams For Hot Flashes

Herbal creams for hot flashes are topical treatments that contain natural ingredients believed to help alleviate the symptoms of menopausal hot flashes.

These creams often include herbs such as sage, red clover, and licorice root, which are thought to have cooling and soothing properties. While some studies suggest that certain herbs may help regulate body temperature and reduce sweating, the effectiveness of these creams can vary depending on the individual and the specific ingredients used. Many users report a mild sense of relief, though scientific evidence supporting their efficacy remains limited.

As with any topical product, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you have sensitive skin or are taking other medications.

1. Vitex agnus-castus

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, is a herbal remedy often used in the form of creams to help alleviate symptoms of hot flashes, particularly in women experiencing menopause.

These creams typically contain extracts of the plant, which are believed to support hormonal balance by influencing the pituitary gland and regulating estrogen levels. While some studies suggest that vitex may help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes, more research is needed to fully confirm its efficacy. When using vitex agnus-castus creams, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.

As with any complementary therapy, individual responses can vary, and the cream should be used as part of a holistic approach to managing menopausal symptoms.

2. 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 formulated with extracts from the root of the plant and are designed to be applied topically to the skin, offering a non-systemic alternative to oral supplements. While some studies suggest that black cohosh may help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes, the effectiveness of topical creams compared to oral formulations remains a topic of ongoing research. Users may experience localized relief due to the absorption of active compounds through the skin, though results can vary among individuals.

As with any herbal product, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before use, especially for those with existing medical conditions or taking other medications.

3. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been explored for its potential to alleviate symptoms of hot flashes, particularly in women experiencing menopause.

While scientific research on echinacea's direct effect on hot flashes is limited, some studies suggest that its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties may help reduce the frequency and intensity of these symptoms. Herbal creams containing echinacea are often used topically, though their effectiveness for internal symptoms like hot flashes remains unclear. Many users report a sense of calm and reduced stress, which can indirectly help manage hot flashes.

As with any herbal remedy, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before use, especially for individuals with allergies or those taking other medications.

4. 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 from hot flashes, a common symptom of menopause.

These creams typically contain essential oils and extracts of fresh or dried ginger root, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may help reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes. When applied topically, the active compounds in ginger can be absorbed through the skin, providing localized cooling and soothing effects. Some women report that using ginger herbal creams helps them manage discomfort without the side effects often associated with hormonal treatments.

While more research is needed, ginger-based creams are gaining attention as a natural and alternative option for alleviating menopausal symptoms.

5. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes associated with menopause.

Herbal creams containing glycyrrhiza glabra are formulated to provide topical relief by soothing the skin and reducing the intensity of sudden heat sensations. These creams often combine licorice extract with other natural ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile to enhance their calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies suggest that the compounds in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin, may help regulate hormonal imbalances that contribute to hot flashes.

While more research is needed, many users report that these herbal creams offer a gentle, natural alternative to conventional treatments for managing menopausal symptoms.

6. Urtica dioica

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential to alleviate symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes.

When incorporated into topical creams, Urtica dioica may help reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes by soothing the skin and promoting hormonal balance. These creams are often made by infusing the fresh or dried leaves of the plant into a base of coconut oil or other carrier oils, enhancing their absorption and effectiveness. Some studies suggest that the compounds in stinging nettle, such as flavonoids and minerals, may support the body's natural regulatory processes.

While more research is needed, many women find relief from hot flashes using Urtica dioica herbal creams as a natural and complementary therapy.

7. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a herbal ingredient often used in the formulation of creams aimed at alleviating symptoms of hot flashes.

These creams typically combine rosemary essential oil with other natural components like lavender or chamomile to create a soothing and cooling effect on the skin. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of rosemary may help reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes by promoting hormonal balance and improving circulation. When applied topically, these creams can provide a calming sensation, offering relief from the discomfort associated with menopausal symptoms.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using such products, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or existing medical conditions.

8. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often incorporated into herbal creams designed to alleviate the discomfort of hot flashes associated with menopause.

These creams typically combine lavender essential oil with moisturizing ingredients like shea butter or coconut oil to provide both therapeutic and soothing benefits. The calming properties of lavender are believed to help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes by promoting relaxation and balancing the body's internal temperature. Studies suggest that the aromatic compounds in lavender may interact with the nervous system to ease stress and hormonal fluctuations.

As a natural alternative to pharmaceutical treatments, lavender-based creams offer a gentle, aromatherapy-driven approach to managing menopausal symptoms.

9. 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 menopause, including hot flashes.

While it is most well-known for its use in treating mild to moderate depression, some studies suggest it may also help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes in postmenopausal women. However, it is important to note that hypericum perforatum can interact with various medications, including hormonal therapies and antidepressants, which may lead to adverse effects. As a result, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider before using St. John's Wort for hot flashes, especially if other medical conditions or medications are involved.

Despite these considerations, some women find it beneficial as a natural alternative to conventional treatments for managing menopausal symptoms.

10. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, has been traditionally used for its potential health benefits, including its use in herbal creams for managing hot flashes.

These creams often contain extracts of sage leaves, which are believed to have phytoestrogenic properties that may help balance hormone levels in women experiencing menopause. Studies suggest that topical application of sage-based products may provide localized cooling effects and reduce the intensity of hot flashes by influencing body temperature regulation. While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, many users report relief from symptoms when using sage herbal creams as part of a holistic approach to menopausal care.

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