So many women suffer from hot flashes. Certain herbs have been used over the centuries for support and balance for this situation.

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries herbal therapy was very much accepted. Black Cohosh was listed in the United States Pharmacopoeia, the nation's official drug reference book, from 1820 to 1926.

Why wouldn't you see that listed there now days? Around World War II, drug manufacturers began focusing almost exclusively on synthetic drugs that, unlike herbs, could be patented and so would provide big profits. So research into herbals stopped, and the Doctors dropped most herbal remedies.

However, studies were still done overseas. A 1985 pharmacological study conducted in Germany reported that Black Cohosh contained an isoflavone, a type of phytoestrogen, or plant estrogen.

Other studies have failed to find the isoflavone compound. They do suggest that Black Cohosh acts on the Hypothalmus, which is the gland in the head regulating hormones and body temperature.

What ever the case may be, Black Cohosh has worked for women world wide.

Dong Quai according to herbalist Feather Jones increases the number of binding sites for extrogen-sensitive tissues. She says it will not overstimulate extrogen because it will helps shut off estrogen production when it becomes excessive. So it acts as an estrogen balancer.

Chaste Tree, also called Vitex is also useful. It contains phytoestrogens which mimic the chemistry of estrogen. It also stimulates progesterone production. It helps with the crampy, spotty periods.

Licorice root helps to support the adrenals by improving cortisol production. This is needed when the adrenals are involved in the problem, which is true with many women. I would not suggest that you take Licorice Rood over a month at a time though.

You can find these as single herbs or in compounds at the health food store. I happen to use Herb Pharm brand tinctures, because they are high quality. I have also found a cream to rub on, that contains Dong Quai, Licorice and Black Cohosh at the health food store.

Taking phytoestrogens for a long time without testing where your hormone levels are could cause problems. So I suggest that you get a test periodically of where your hormone levels are. Several companies online offer Hormone Saliva Testing. You can do a search online for that.

If self treating does not work after a few months, make sure to consult with a health practitioner or holistic M.D. They may have further evaluations or suggestions for you, which will include testing where your hormone levels.

You can do something about those hot flashes! Don