By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Menopause
Herbal teas for menopause are natural remedies made from plant extracts that help alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
Examples of helpful herbal teas include peppermint, chamomile, and red clover, which have been shown to reduce hot flashes and anxiety.
Drinking these teas can improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and boost mood, enhancing overall well-being and quality of life for women going through menopause.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for menopause, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Dioscorea villosa
- 2. Actaea racemosa
- 3. Trifolium pratense
- 4. Zingiber officinale
- 5. Valeriana officinalis
- 6. Mentha x piperita
- 7. Matricaria chamomilla
- 8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 9. Angelica sinensis
- 10. Leonurus cardiaca
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for menopause?
- What ailments similar to menopause are treated with herbal teas?
1. Dioscorea villosa
Dioscorea villosa, also known as wild yam, teas helps with menopause because it contains compounds that mimic the body's natural estrogens, providing relief from hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
The tea's anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce joint pain and stiffness, common symptoms experienced by many women during menopause.
Additionally, wild yam tea is believed to support the body's hormonal balance, promoting a smoother transition into this new life stage.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Dioscorea villosa teas that help with menopause.
- Saponins: Saponins in Dioscorea villosa help alleviate menopausal symptoms by reducing hot flashes and night sweats due to their anti-inflammatory and estrogen-regulating properties.
- Steroids: Diosgenin, a steroid found in Dioscorea villosa, helps alleviate menopausal symptoms by acting as a phytoestrogen, thereby reducing the severity of hot flashes and night sweats, and improving sleep quality.
- Stilbenoids: Isovitexin, a stilbenoid found in Dioscorea villosa, helps alleviate menopausal symptoms by exhibiting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may reduce the severity of menopausal symptoms and improve overall health.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild yam used to make teas for menopause.
- Roots: They are used to make teas for menopause due to their high content of diosgenin, a compound believed to alleviate menopausal symptoms.
- Rhyzomes: They contain diosgenin and other bioactive compounds that may help in reducing hot flashes and other menopausal issues.
- Stems: The stems of Dioscorea villosa contain diosgenin and other saponins, which may help in alleviating menopausal symptoms such as mood swings and night sweats.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild yam for menopause.
- Gather 30-60 grams of dioscorea villosa roots and clean them thoroughly with water to remove dirt.
- Chop the cleaned dioscorea villosa roots into small pieces to increase surface area for infusion.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of the chopped dioscorea villosa roots in 1 liter of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the dioscorea villosa roots.
- Serve the tea warm or at room temperature after preparation for immediate consumption.
2. Actaea racemosa
Actaea racemosa, also known as black cohosh, teas helps with menopause because of its potential to alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance.
The tea is believed to mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, which can help reduce hot flashes and night sweats. It may also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease anxiety, mood swings, and sleep disturbances common during menopause.
Additionally, black cohosh teas may support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, a common concern for women during this life stage.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Actaea racemosa teas that help with menopause.
- Actein: Helps alleviate menopausal symptoms by acting as a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), reducing estrogen dominance and associated symptoms.
- Cypripedin and epimedulin: May help alleviate hot flashes and night sweats associated with menopause by regulating hormonal balance and reducing inflammation.
- Orientin: May help reduce the severity of menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and mood swings, by exerting antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of black cohosh used to make teas for menopause.
- Roots: The roots are the primary part used due to their high concentration of actein, a compound believed to alleviate menopausal symptoms.
- Roots: The roots are also used for their estrogen-balancing properties, which can help alleviate hot flashes and mood swings associated with menopause.
- Roots: The roots are considered a natural alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) due to their ability to regulate hormonal imbalances during menopause.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic black cohosh for menopause.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of dried actaea racemosa roots or 2-3 ounces of fresh roots.
- Cut the harvested root material into small pieces and crush them into a fine powder.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of the root powder with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes or until the liquid has cooled to a comfortable temperature.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving.
3. Trifolium pratense
Trifolium pratense, also known as red clover, teas helps with menopause because it is rich in isoflavones, particularly formononetin and biochanin A.
These compounds mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, helping to alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. The tea also contains other beneficial compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, promoting overall health and well-being during this life stage.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to support women's health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Trifolium pratense teas that help with menopause.
- Isoflavones: Isoflavones, particularly genistein and daidzein, help alleviate menopause symptoms by binding to estrogen receptors and mimicking the effects of estrogen, reducing hot flashes and night sweats.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Trifolium pratense tea have antioxidant properties, which can help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation associated with menopause, reducing the severity of symptoms.
- Coumarins: Coumarins in Trifolium pratense tea have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate symptoms such as vaginal dryness, mood swings, and sleep disturbances commonly experienced during menopause.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of red clover used to make teas for menopause.
- Leaves: The leaves of Trifolium pratense are often used to make teas for menopause due to their estrogenic properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Trifolium pratense are commonly used to make teas for menopause as they contain isoflavones, which can help alleviate symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Trifolium pratense are sometimes used to make teas for menopause as they are believed to have a balancing effect on hormonal fluctuations.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic red clover for menopause.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of dried trifolium pratense flowers and leaves from a clean location at the peak of freshness.
- Rinse the flowers and leaves with filtered water to remove any dirt or debris from harvesting.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the dried flowers and leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove solids.
- Allow the tea to cool to room temperature before serving and consuming immediately.
4. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with menopause because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties and ability to regulate hormonal balance.
The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Additionally, ginger's antioxidant properties help to protect the body from oxidative stress, promoting overall well-being during this transition period.
Regular consumption of ginger tea may provide relief and support during menopause.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with menopause.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, specifically 6-gingerol and 8-gingerol, have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate hot flashes and night sweats commonly experienced during menopause.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, particularly 6-shogaol, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce menstrual symptoms, such as mood swings and anxiety, associated with menopause.
- Gingerols and shogaols' bioactive compound, gingerol 10,6-dihydrokaempferol: DHK has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-estrogenic properties, which can help alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for menopause.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Roots: Roots are used for their warming and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help alleviate symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes and joint pain.
- Leaves: Leaves are used in some herbal teas due to their lower concentration of active compounds compared to rhyzomes, but still offer some benefits in terms of relaxation and digestion.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for menopause.
- Gather 1 tablespoon of dried zingiber officinale root and 1 cup of boiling water for infusion.
- Steep the root in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids.
- Add honey to taste if desired to sweeten the tea and enhance its flavor.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm and spicy herbal tea after preparation.
5. Valeriana officinalis
Valeriana officinalis, also known as valerian, teas helps with menopause because it contains a unique combination of compounds that promote relaxation and reduce stress.
The valerenic acid and isovaleric acid in valerian root have a calming effect on the nervous system, which can alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes and anxiety. Additionally, valerian tea's sedative properties can help regulate sleep patterns, which often become disrupted during menopause.
This natural remedy can provide relief from menopause symptoms and promote overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Valeriana officinalis teas that help with menopause.
- Isovaleric acid: Isovaleric acid, a terpene constituent, has been found to have a sedative effect, which can help alleviate the sleep disturbances and anxiety that often accompany menopause.
- Valerenic acid: Valerenic acid, another terpene constituent, is known to have a sedative and anxiolytic effect, which can help reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and other symptoms associated with menopause.
- Valerenol: Valerenol, a valepotriate constituent, has been found to have a sedative and anxiolytic effect, which can help alleviate symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness that are common during menopause.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of valerian used to make teas for menopause.
- Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part of Valeriana officinalis for teas, as they contain the highest concentration of valerenic acids, which are responsible for its calming effects.
- Flowers: The flowers of Valeriana officinalis are also used to make teas, as they have a slightly sweeter and less intense flavor compared to the roots, while still providing some of the same benefits.
- Stems: The stems of Valeriana officinalis are occasionally used to make teas, particularly in combination with the roots and flowers, to enhance the overall effect of the herbal remedy.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic valerian for menopause.
- Harvest fresh or dried valeriana officinalis roots from a trusted supplier or your own garden in the morning.
- Dry the valeriana officinalis roots in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Crush 1 teaspoon of dried valeriana officinalis roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the crushed valeriana officinalis powder in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup and discard the solids.
6. Mentha x piperita
Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with menopause because of its soothing and calming effects on the body.
The active compounds in peppermint, such as menthol and menthone, have been shown to alleviate symptoms of hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Peppermint's ability to relax the digestive system and promote healthy digestion can also help reduce bloating and cramps associated with menopause.
Additionally, peppermint's antioxidant properties can help protect against oxidative stress, promoting overall well-being during this life transition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with menopause.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate hot flashes and night sweats associated with menopause.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has a sedative effect, which may help reduce stress and anxiety symptoms often experienced during menopause.
- Menthol: This terpene has a cooling effect, which may help alleviate hot flashes and other temperature regulation issues often associated with menopause.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for menopause.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and essential oils, peppermint leaves help alleviate hot flashes and other menopause symptoms.
- Buds: Containing menthone and menthol, peppermint buds aid in digestion and reduce nausea associated with menopause.
- Flowers: Peppermint flowers have a calming effect and help with sleep disturbances, anxiety, and mood swings often experienced during menopause.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for menopause.
- Harvest fresh leaves and stems of mentha x piperita in the early morning hours.
- Rinse the harvested mentha x piperita leaves and stems with cold running water.
- Chop the rinsed mentha x piperita leaves and stems into small pieces weighing about 2 grams.
- Steep the chopped mentha x piperita in a cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and let it cool before serving and consuming it.
7. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with menopause because it contains apigenin and luteolin, which are natural relaxants that ease hot flashes and anxiety.
Chamomile's anti-inflammatory properties may also reduce menstrual cramps and mood swings. Additionally, its soothing effects can promote better sleep, which is often disrupted during menopause.
By calming the body and mind, chamomile tea can provide relief from the symptoms of menopause, allowing women to manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with menopause.
- Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, helps alleviate menopause symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating hormone levels, providing relief from hot flashes and mood swings.
- Chamazulene: Chamazulene, a sesquiterpene lactone, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help soothe menstrual cramps, breast tenderness, and other menopausal discomforts associated with hormonal fluctuations.
- Luteolin: Luteolin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has been shown to have a positive effect on menopause symptoms by reducing oxidative stress and modulating the body's inflammatory response, thus providing relief from hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for menopause.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of apigenin and luteolin, which are flavonoids that help alleviate menopausal symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia.
- Seeds: They contain a compound called apigenin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce hot flashes and night sweats.
- Leaves: They are used as a mild sedative to help with sleep disturbances and anxiety associated with menopause, due to their calming effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for menopause.
- Harvest the dried flowers of matricaria chamomilla by gathering them in a clean basket when they are fully ripe.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for several hours to remove excess moisture.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried flowers for every 8 ounces of water and place them in a heat-resistant cup.
- Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over the dried flowers and let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes to release the active ingredients.
- Strain the tea into a separate cup and discard the solids to enjoy a soothing and calming herbal tea.
8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with menopause because it contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe the body.
The tea's active compounds, including glycyrrhizin, help regulate hormonal imbalances associated with menopause, reducing hot flashes and night sweats. Additionally, licorice root tea is known to have a calming effect on the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress levels commonly experienced during menopause.
This natural remedy can provide relief from menopause symptoms, promoting a smoother transition into this life stage.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with menopause.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate menopause-related symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.
- Licopyrones: These flavonoids have estrogen-like effects and can help stabilize hormone levels, reducing symptoms of menopause such as mood swings and vaginal dryness.
- Isoliquiritigenin: This flavonoid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce hot flashes and night sweats, as well as improve sleep quality during menopause.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for menopause.
- Roots: They are used to make teas for menopause because of their high content of glycyrrhizin, which helps to alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.
- Leaves: They are used to make teas for menopause because they contain flavonoids and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to reduce symptoms such as night sweats and anxiety.
- Flowers: They are used to make teas for menopause because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that have a soothing effect on the body, which can help to reduce symptoms such as mood swings and irritability.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for menopause.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and wash them thoroughly in cold running water to remove any impurities.
- Dry the roots for 30 minutes in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Grind the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder for 30 seconds.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to enjoy the herbal tea immediately and store any leftovers in an airtight container.
9. Angelica sinensis
Angelica sinensis, also known as dong quai, teas helps with menopause because of its rich content of isoflavones and ferulic acid.
These compounds work to alleviate hot flashes and night sweats by regulating estrogen levels and improving blood circulation. Additionally, Angelica sinensis has been traditionally used to ease menstrual cramps and promote relaxation, which can also help to reduce stress and anxiety associated with menopause.
As a result, this herbal tea has become a popular natural remedy for managing menopausal symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Angelica sinensis teas that help with menopause.
- Coumarins: Coumarins in Angelica sinensis tea help alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Ligustilide: Ligustilide, a sesquiterpene in Angelica sinensis, helps to regulate hormones and reduce stress associated with menopause by acting as an estrogen receptor modulator and having sedative effects.
- Saponins: Saponins in Angelica sinensis tea help to improve menopausal symptoms by exhibiting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and estrogenic properties, which may help alleviate hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dong quai used to make teas for menopause.
- Roots: The roots are the primary source of the herb's medicinal properties and are often used to treat various symptoms associated with menopause.
- Leaves: The leaves contain a significant amount of essential oils, which are believed to help alleviate hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.
- Stems: The stems are also rich in essential oils and are often used in combination with the roots and leaves to create a balanced menopause tea.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dong quai for menopause.
- Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried angelica sinensis roots or 3-4 teaspoons of fresh angelica sinensis roots.
- Combine the gathered angelica sinensis roots with 1 liter of boiling water and let steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a teapot to remove the angelica sinensis roots.
- Add honey or sugar to taste to the herbal tea and stir well to combine.
- Serve the hot or cooled herbal tea immediately and consume within 1-2 hours.
10. Leonurus cardiaca
Leonurus cardiaca, also known as motherwort, teas helps with menopause because it's a natural remedy that alleviates symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.
The tea's active compounds, including iridoid glycosides, have a balancing effect on hormones, which can help regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate mood swings.
Additionally, motherwort tea has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce breast tenderness and joint pain commonly experienced during menopause, providing a natural and soothing solution for women going through this life stage.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Leonurus cardiaca teas that help with menopause.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds, particularly leonurine and leonuridine, help alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats due to their estrogenic and antioxidant properties.
- Terpenoids: These constituents, including rosmarinic acid, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that help reduce menopausal symptoms like joint pain and mood swings.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, leonurine-flavonoids, contribute to the estrogenic activity of Leonurus cardiaca, which aids in alleviating menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of motherwort used to make teas for menopause.
- Leaves: High in flavonoids and phenolic acids, which can help alleviate menopausal symptoms.
- Flowers: Rich in iridoid glycosides, which can help regulate hormonal balance and reduce hot flashes.
- Roots: Contain iridoid glycosides and other compounds that can help soothe menstrual cramps and other menopausal symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic motherwort for menopause.
- Gather 1 ounce of dried leonurus cardiaca flowers and leaves from a trusted herbal supplier.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried leonurus cardiaca flowers in a cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove loose plant material.
- Discard the solids and add honey or lemon to taste if desired for added flavor.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature before serving and consuming immediately.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for menopause?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with menopause is a blend of Red Clover, Black Cohosh, and Ginger.
Red Clover is a natural estrogen balancer, while Black Cohosh helps alleviate hot flashes and night sweats. Ginger adds anti-inflammatory properties to soothe digestive issues and calm the body. Together, these teas work synergistically to ease menopause symptoms, promote relaxation, and support overall well-being.
Drinking 1-2 cups a day may provide relief and improve the quality of life during this transition.
What ailments similar to menopause are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to menopause/teas.html">menopause/teas.html">menopause that are treated with herbal teas are premenstrual syndrome (PMS), perimenopause, and postpartum symptoms.
Herbs such as chasteberry, black cohosh, and passionflower have been used to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.
These teas may also help with menstrual cramp relief and hormonal imbalance issues.