10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Hot Flashes

Herbal decoctions for hot flashes are a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause.

These decoctions are created by steeping herbs in hot water, releasing their bioactive compounds that help to regulate body temperature and ease hot flash episodes. Examples of herbal decoctions that provide relief from hot flashes include Black cohosh, Ginger, and Valerian root.

By drinking these decoctions, women can experience reduced frequency and severity of hot flashes, allowing them to manage their daily lives with greater comfort and confidence.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for hot flashes, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Angelica archangelica

Angelica decoctions helps with hot flashes because it contains bioactive compounds that have a profound impact on the body's thermoregulatory system.

The decoction's cooling properties help to reduce feelings of heat and sweating, providing instant relief from hot flash episodes. Additionally, angelica's flavonoids and terpenes work to normalize hormonal imbalances, which can contribute to hot flashes in menopausal women.

As a natural and non-hormonal solution, angelica decoctions offer a safe and effective way to alleviate hot flash symptoms, promoting a sense of comfort and well-being.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica archangelica decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Angelica archangelica, particularly ferulic acid, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate hot flash symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• Ligustilide: Ligustilide is a sesquiterpene lactone found in Angelica archangelica, which has been demonstrated to have a sedative and anti-anxiety effect, potentially helping to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes.
• Angelica's coumarins: Coumarins in Angelica archangelica have been found to have a vasodilatory effect, which can help to improve blood circulation and reduce hot flash symptoms by dilating blood vessels and promoting the relaxation of smooth muscle.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of angelica used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Roots: They are rich in ferulic acid, which has been shown to help alleviate hot flashes.
• Leaves: They contain a significant amount of ferulic acid and other compounds that help to regulate body temperature.
• Stems: They also contain ferulic acid and other bioactive compounds that can aid in reducing hot flashes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic angelica for hot flashes.

1. Harvest fresh angelica archangelica roots in late summer or early fall when the plant is in full maturity.
2. Clean the harvested roots under cold running water to remove any dirt and debris thoroughly.
3. Chop the clean roots into small pieces weighing about 2-3 grams for every 200 milliliters of water.
4. Steep the chopped roots in boiling water for 5-10 minutes or longer to release their active compounds completely.
5. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solid roots completely.

2. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop decoctions helps with hot flashes because of its ability to calm and balance the body's hormonal system.

The plant contains flavonoids, which have been shown to exhibit estrogen-like properties, helping to reduce the severity and frequency of hot flashes. Additionally, maypop's antispasmodic properties help relax smooth muscle tissue, reducing symptoms such as sweating, flushing, and anxiety associated with menopausal hot flashes.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to soothe and regulate hormonal imbalances, providing relief from this common symptom of menopause.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Isovitexin: This flavonoid glycoside may help alleviate hot flashes by reducing the frequency and severity of vasomotor symptoms through its estrogenic and antioxidant properties.
• Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds have estrogenic effects and may help mitigate hot flashes by binding to estrogen receptors, thereby reducing vasomotor symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuations.
• Harmane: This β-carboline alkaloid may help alleviate hot flashes by modulating the body's hormonal responses and reducing the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can contribute to hot flash symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Leaves: Leaves are commonly used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that help alleviate hot flash symptoms.
• Roots: Roots are typically used as they contain a higher amount of passiflorin, a key alkaloid responsible for the therapeutic effects of Passiflora incarnata in managing hot flashes.
• Fruits: Fruits are often used due to their rich content of vitamins and minerals, which contribute to the overall health benefits associated with the treatment of hot flashes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for hot flashes.

1. Harvest 30 to 60 grams of dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves from a trusted source.
2. Grind the dried herb into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
3. Combine 2 grams of the powdered herb with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the herb to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean cup.

3. Valeriana officinalis

Valerian decoctions helps with hot flashes because of its calming and relaxing properties, which can help to alleviate symptoms such as sweating, flushing, and anxiety.

The herb has been traditionally used to treat menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, due to its ability to reduce cortisol levels and promote a sense of relaxation and calmness.

By soothing the nervous system, valerian decoctions can help to regulate body temperature and reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes, providing relief from this common menopause symptom.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Valerenic acid: This sesquiterpene acts as a GABA receptor agonist, which helps to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
• Isovalerenol: This isovalerene derivative has a sedative effect and helps to reduce anxiety and stress, which are often associated with hot flashes, thereby alleviating their symptoms.
• Valeranone: This valerenic acid derivative has a sedative and anxiolytic effect, which helps to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Roots: They contain the highest concentration of valerenic acids, which are responsible for the herb's sedative properties and relief from hot flashes.
• Stems: The stems also contain valerenic acids, although in lower amounts than the roots, and are often used in combination with roots for a more comprehensive decoction.
• Leaves: Valeriana officinalis leaves are often used as a complementary part to the roots and stems, providing additional flavonoids and other compounds that enhance the decoction's therapeutic effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for hot flashes.

1. Harvest valeriana officinalis roots in the fall season when the plant is in full maturity.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a well-ventilated area at a temperature below 40 degrees celsius for several days.
3. Chop the dried roots into small pieces weighing about 20 grams per serving for a decoction.
4. Combine the chopped roots with 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes then strain the liquid and discard the solids.

4. Hypericum perforatum

St John's Wort decoctions help with hot flashes because they contain compounds that have a cooling effect on the body, reducing inflammation and soothing hormonal imbalances.

The antioxidant properties of St John's Wort also help to neutralize free radicals that can exacerbate hot flash symptoms. Additionally, its adaptogenic properties allow it to interact with the body's natural systems, gently regulating hormone production and promoting a sense of balance and well-being.

This natural approach can provide relief from hot flashes without the use of pharmaceuticals.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Hyperforin: Hyperforin, a phenolic compound, helps alleviate hot flashes by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates the body's stress response and hormonal balance.
• N-acetyl-serotonin: NAS, a serotonin-derived compound, aids in reducing hot flashes by influencing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps regulate body temperature and hormonal fluctuations.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may contribute to its efficacy in alleviating hot flashes by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress associated with menopausal symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Leaves: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that help regulate body temperature and reduce symptoms associated with hot flashes.
• Roots: They are rich in hyperforin and other alkaloids, which contribute to their potential therapeutic effects in alleviating hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.
• Flowers: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may help in regulating hormonal balance and reducing the severity of hot flashes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for hot flashes.

1. Harvest 25-50g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and leaves from a trusted source in the morning.
2. Crush the hypericum perforatum material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
3. Combine 1-2 teaspoons of the hypericum powder with 250ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
4. Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes and then strain it using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
5. Discard the solids and store the resulting decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

5. Citrus x aurantium

Bitter orange decoctions helps with hot flashes because they contain a unique combination of bioflavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenes that work together to alleviate symptoms.

The decoction's flavonoids, specifically naringenin and hesperidin, have been shown to possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the body's production of heat-promoting hormones.

Additionally, the bitter compounds in the decoction may stimulate the nervous system, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation, further mitigating hot flash episodes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Citrus x aurantium decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Synephrine: Acts as a natural thermogenic agent to stimulate heat loss and help reduce hot flashes.
• Naringenin: Exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate hot flash symptoms by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
• Hesperidin: A flavonoid with potential estrogenic activity, which may help regulate hormonal imbalances and alleviate hot flashes in menopausal women.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of bitter orange used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Barks: Its barks are commonly used due to their high content of naringenin and other flavonoids, which have been shown to have a cooling effect on the body.
• Leaves: Citrus x aurantium leaves are often used in herbal remedies due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenes, which help to regulate body temperature and alleviate hot flashes.
• Seeds: The seeds of Citrus x aurantium are used due to their high content of naringenin, which has been shown to have a cooling effect on the body and help to reduce hot flashes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bitter orange for hot flashes.

1. Gather 20 grams of dried bark from the specified plant and 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
2. Combine the plant material with water in the saucepan and bring it to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes then remove from heat.
4. Allow the mixture to steep for 30 minutes then strain it through a cheesecloth into a container.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving in small doses.

6. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with hot flashes because of its ability to soothe and calm the body's hormonal fluctuations.

The herbal tea contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. This calming effect helps to regulate the hypothalamus, which controls body temperature, leading to a decrease in hot flash frequency and severity. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate accompanying symptoms such as sweating and flushing.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, chamomile decoctions provide natural relief from hot flashes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Apigenin: An apigenin flavonoid, which helps to reduce hot flashes by exerting anti-inflammatory and estrogenic effects, thereby alleviating menopausal symptoms.
• Apollin: A sesquiterpene lactone found in Matricaria chamomilla, which contributes to the plant's anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to mitigate hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.
• Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which helps to reduce hot flashes by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and alleviating menopausal symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Flowers: They contain flavonoids and apigenin, which help to calm the nervous system and reduce hot flashes.
• Leaves: They are often used in combination with flowers to take advantage of their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Seeds: They contain apigenin and other compounds that help to regulate hormonal imbalances and alleviate symptoms of hot flashes.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for hot flashes.

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers in a clean bowl.
2. Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan for 5 minutes to reach the boiling point.
3. Steep the matricaria chamomilla flowers in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
5. Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.

7. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with hot flashes because of its natural ability to soothe and calm the body.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerols and shogaols, have a cooling effect that can help alleviate the intense heat and sweating associated with hot flashes. Additionally, ginger's anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce inflammation in the body, which is thought to contribute to menopause symptoms like hot flashes.

By drinking ginger decoctions regularly, women experiencing hot flashes may find relief from this uncomfortable symptom.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Gingerol: It helps alleviate hot flashes by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are hormone-like substances responsible for causing hot flashes.
• Shogaol: It aids in reducing hot flashes by acting as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), thereby increasing serotonin levels and promoting relaxation.
• 6-gingerol: It helps in reducing hot flashes by exhibiting antioxidant properties, which can help counteract the oxidative stress caused by hormonal imbalances that lead to hot flashes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Zingiber officinale are used because they contain active compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and vasodilatory properties that help alleviate hot flashes.
• Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale are used because they are rich in antioxidants and have a long history of use in traditional medicine to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce hot flashes.
• Leaves: The leaves of Zingiber officinale are used because they contain compounds like gingerols and shogaols, similar to rhyzomes, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for hot flashes.

1. Gather 3-6 fresh or dried zingiber officinale roots weighing about 6 grams and wash them thoroughly with clean water.
2. Chop the washed roots into smaller pieces and grind them into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of the ground root powder with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan.
4. Allow the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has reduced to half its original volume.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to discard the solids.

8. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with hot flashes because they contain a wealth of phytochemicals that work to calm and soothe the body.

The plant's diuretic properties help to reduce water retention, alleviating symptoms of heat and discomfort. Additionally, dandelion's estrogen-balancing effects can help regulate hormonal imbalances that may be contributing to hot flashes.

By supporting liver function and promoting detoxification, dandelion decoctions also help eliminate excess hormones that can exacerbate hot flash symptoms, providing a natural and holistic approach to managing these menopausal symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with hot flashes by exerting estrogenic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate symptoms associated with menopause.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the frequency and severity of hot flashes by protecting against oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpene has anti-inflammatory and hormone-regulating properties, which may help alleviate hot flashes by reducing inflammation and modulating hormonal imbalances.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Leaves: Leaved decoctions are used to treat hot flashes due to their ability to cool and calm the body.
• Flowers: Flower-based decoctions are used to address hot flashes because they have a soothing effect on the nervous system and body temperature.
• Roots: Root decoctions are used to alleviate hot flashes as they have a balancing effect on the body's energy and temperature.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for hot flashes.

1. Gather 1 part of taraxacum officinale roots and flowers and clean them thoroughly under cold running water for 5 minutes.
2. Dry the cleaned taraxacum officinale parts at 40 degrees celsius for 24 hours to preserve their properties.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of dried taraxacum officinale with 1 liter of boiling water and steep for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the taraxacum officinale decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
5. Store the taraxacum officinale decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for later use.

9. Asparagus officinalis

Asparagus decoctions helps with hot flashes because of its unique phytochemical composition, which includes flavonoids, saponins, and asparagine.

These compounds work synergistically to alleviate vasodilation and reduce inflammation in the body, thereby minimizing the frequency and severity of hot flashes. The decoction's cooling properties also help regulate body temperature, providing relief from the intense heat associated with menopausal symptoms.

Additionally, asparagus' natural estrogen-balancing effects can further contribute to a reduction in hot flash episodes.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Asparagus officinalis decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Saponins: Saponins may help reduce hot flashes by regulating estrogen levels and modulating the body's thermoregulatory response.
• Coumarins: Coumarins, particularly scopoletin, may have a beneficial effect on hot flashes by reducing inflammation and improving blood vessel function, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with hot flashes.
• Asparagine: Asparagine may contribute to the alleviation of hot flashes by acting as a neurotransmitter modulator, influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and thus helping to regulate body temperature.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of asparagus used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Roots: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and estrogen-balancing properties.
• Seeds: They contain saponins as well, making them a popular choice for decoctions aimed at alleviating hot flashes symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves of Asparagus officinalis are also used, as they are rich in flavonoids and other compounds that may help regulate hormonal imbalances.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asparagus for hot flashes.

1. Gather fresh asparagus officinalis spears and clean them thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
2. Measure 30 grams of fresh asparagus officinalis spears and chop them into smaller pieces.
3. Combine the chopped asparagus officinalis with 1 liter of boiling water in a large pot.
4. Simmer the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes or until the liquid has reduced by half.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

10. Echinacea purpurea

Purple coneflower decoctions helps with hot flashes because of its unique combination of phytochemicals, particularly flavonoids and phenolic acids.

These compounds have a calming effect on the body, helping to reduce inflammation and regulate hormonal imbalances that can trigger hot flashes. The decoction's anti-inflammatory properties also help to soothe the skin and calm nervous system activity, providing relief from excessive sweating and discomfort associated with hot flashes.

By addressing the underlying causes of hot flashes, purple coneflower decoctions offer a natural and effective way to manage this common menopausal symptom.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with hot flashes.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may help alleviate hot flashes by reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, which can help regulate body temperature and alleviate symptoms.
• Alkylamides: Alkylamides have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the severity and frequency of hot flashes by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation associated with menopausal symptoms.
• Cichoric acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate hot flashes by reducing inflammation, promoting relaxation, and regulating body temperature.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for hot flashes.

• Roots: They are used due to their high concentration of alkylamides and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties and help regulate body temperature.
• Flowers: They are used due to their rich content of flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help alleviate hot flash symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used due to their high concentration of caffeic acid and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help regulate body temperature and alleviate hot flash symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for hot flashes.

1. Harvest fresh echinacea purpurea roots and rhizomes in late summer or early fall when roots are mature and fully developed.
2. Dry the harvested roots and rhizomes in a low-temperature oven or air dryer at 150-200 degrees fahrenheit for eight hours.
3. Crush the dried echinacea purpurea roots and rhizomes into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder.
4. Combine one teaspoon of the powdered echinacea with 250 milliliters of boiling water in a saucepan to make a decoction.
5. Simmer the decoction for 5-10 minutes then strain and discard the solids to produce a liquid herbal remedy.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for hot flashes?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with hot flashes is a blend of Black Cohosh, Red Clover, and Dong Quai.

Black Cohosh is known for its ability to regulate hormonal imbalances, while Red Clover contains isoflavones that mimic estrogen, helping to alleviate hot flash symptoms. Dong Quai, a Chinese herb, is rich in ferulic acid, which helps to relax the blood vessels, reducing hot flashes and night sweats.

This combination works synergistically to provide relief and balance to the body.

What ailments similar to hot flashes are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to hot flashes that are treated with herbal decoctions are menopausal symptoms such as night sweats, insomnia, and anxiety.

Herbal remedies like black cohosh, dong quai, and chasteberry have been traditionally used to alleviate these symptoms by promoting hormone balance and relaxing the body.

Other conditions, including fibromyalgia, arthritis, and migraines, may also be treated with herbal decoctions that help to reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and calm nervous tension.