A Guide to Balancing Plant Supplements for Menopause

There are a lot of herbs out there that claim to support emotional or physical balance during menopause, and they come in many forms; capsules, powders, extracts and more. Some have anecdotal evidence behind them, some have research behind them. We’re weighing in on five balancing herbs we’re curious about at ethos.

1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

WHAT IT IS: A flowering plant whose root and sometimes leaf are used to make an adaptogenic supplement.

HOW IT’S USED: Ashwagandha is commonly referred to as an adaptogen, meaning it can help the body cope with daily stress. Often references as ‘the perfect antidote for burnout’. Many menopausal women swear by it to help with everything from sleep to emotional balance. At ethos we add it to our Balance CBD oil, to support calm and clarity to help you take on each day.

THE RESEARCH: Several studies have shown that Ashwagandha could be beneficial for a wide range of purposes. The strongest research so far has focused on Ashwagandha’s potential to help with reducing anxiety. We also know that it has mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Jessica O’Dwyer, Registered Nutritional Therapist and friend of ethos, recommends adding Balance CBD oil to your daily smoothie to help support your adrenals and help lower your cortisol levels.

2. CBD from Hemp (Cannabidiol)

WHAT IT IS: CBD is one of over a 100 different cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. Cannabinoids are chemical compounds that naturally occur in the flower and leaves of the plant. They are also referred to as ‘phytocannabinoids’ due to their existence in plants as opposed to cannabinoids found naturally in the body named ‘endocannabinoids’ – yes that’s right, our body already produces it’s own cannabinoids already to support our endocannabinoid system.

HOW IT’S USED: The primary impact of CBD in the body is down to its interaction with the body’s Endocannabinoid System, ECS for short. The ECS is found throughout the body and brain and is fundamental to human wellbeing through the regulation of other biological systems and maintaining homeostasis in the brain and body. CBD stimulates the entire endocannabinoid system, harmonising and balancing its processes. At ethos, organic Irish CBD forms the base of all of our products because of its many potential benefits.

THE RESEARCH: Studies have shown that CBD activates serotonin receptors, binds with pain receptors, suppresses the function of other unwanted cells and receptors, and also acts as a powerful antioxidant. It is clear that CBD is no ordinary compound and may have a multitude of benefits for the body and mind.

3. Tulsi / Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)

WHAT IT IS: This herb is considered sacred in India and is celebrated for its adaptogenic affects.

HOW IT’S USED: We like to call it ‘the meditation of herbs’ – a safe and effective option for stress and sleep. Tulsi is a key ingredient in our Balance Hemp Tea – to help calm the nervous system and enjoyed as a daily anti-stress tonic.

WHY: There have been a number of preclinical studies on holy basil for anxiety and stress relief and just a handful of clinical trials, which show promising results. A 2017 study at RMIT University in Melbourne showed that holy basil increased cognitive ability in healthy people. It may also help with our immune systems, as one clinical trial showed that holy basil increased white blood cell counts, specifically T helper cells and natural killer T cells.

4. Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

WHAT IT IS: Known as “nature’s Valium,” valerian is a pink flowering plant that’s native to Europe and Asia.

HOW IT’S USED: Valerian is most commonly consumed in teas, so we’ve added it in our Rest Tea Blend – a dreamy infusion of sweet and floral botanicals. This herbal tea blend is to be enjoyed in the evening before bed, as part of a calming bedtime routine.

THE RESEARCH: Research supports valerian root’s sedative effects. A 2006 meta-analysis found that valerian root improved sleep quality in a group suffering from insomnia. It has also been found to decrease the frequency and severity of menopausal hot flashes among women who took a 530 milligram capsule twice a day for two months.

5. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

WHAT IT IS: A daisylike flower that has been consumed for centuries as a tea.

HOW IT’S USED: Chamomile has been described for centuries as a calming, sleep inducing herb. We enjoy it just before bed in our Rest Hemp Tea and our Rest CBD Oil.

THE RESEARCH: Several clinical trials have shown that chamomile can decrease anxiety symptoms and help with sleep quality.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice. To the extent that this article features the advice of physicians or medical practitioners, the views expressed are the views of the cited expert.