Turmeric for Menopause

Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but did you know that in recent years, researchers have found that turmeric may be particularly beneficial for women going through menopause?

Turmeric is a phytoestrogen which means it has an estrogen like effect on the body. This is great for menopause because it is the loss of estrogen in most cases that causes the hormonal imbalance, and finding a safe and natural way to boost estrogen levels is preferred by many women.

Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life that occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs, leading to a drop in hormone levels. This can cause a range of symptoms, including hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness, so it is always welcoming news when new and natural ways to treat these unwelcome symptoms are proven to help. Here are just some of the benefits that turmeric can have for menopause:

1. Reduces inflammation: Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation can contribute to a range of menopausal symptoms, including joint pain, mood swings, and hot flushes. By reducing inflammation, turmeric may help to alleviate these symptoms.
2. Supports cardiovascular health: Menopause is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, as estrogen helps to protect the heart. However, turmeric has been found to support cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels and improving blood flow.
3. Improves cognitive function: Many women going through menopause experience cognitive changes such as forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating. Turmeric may help to improve cognitive function by reducing inflammation in the brain and promoting the growth of new brain cells, helping alleviate the ‘brain fog’ syndrome so many women talk about.
4. Alleviates hot flushes: Hot flushes are one of the most common and uncomfortable symptoms of menopause. Studies have found that turmeric may help to reduce the frequency and severity of hot flushes by regulating hormone levels and reducing inflammation.
5. Improves bone health: Menopause is also associated with a loss of bone density, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Turmeric may help to improve bone health by reducing inflammation and increasing the production of bone cells.
6. Relieves vaginal dryness: Vaginal dryness is a common symptom of menopause that can cause discomfort and pain during sex. Turmeric may help to relieve vaginal dryness by promoting blood flow to the vaginal area and reducing inflammation.
7. Boosts your libido: The active component of Turmeric, Curcumin is thought to increase testosterone levels and, as a result, help menopausal women boost their libido. Results can be gradual to the incredible complexity of the female hormonal system.
8. Supports liver function: The liver plays a crucial role in hormone metabolism, and menopause can put extra strain on the liver. Turmeric has been found to support liver function by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. Making sure the liver detoxification pathways are working effectively to excrete circulating hormones is paramount in reducing symptoms of menopause.

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties is proving to be a must have for any woman transitioning through menopause. By reducing inflammation and regulating hormone levels, turmeric may help to alleviate many of the uncomfortable and unwanted symptoms of menopause like hot flushes, mood swings and vaginal dryness.

Of course, a healthy diet, hydration, daily exercise and positive social connections are all important components of health at any age. It’s important to understand just how valuable these good habits are as we age, and by adding natural supplements like turmeric into our health routine, we can be confident that it’s benefits can support all the body systems required to live a long and healthy life well beyond menopause.