Prior to menopause estrogens are normally produced from a hormone known as progesterone, which is generally present in higher levels than estrogen. Progesterone controls estrogen levels by converting to estrogen when needed, and by antagonizing high estrogen levels to prevent cancer and other estrogen related problems. During natural or surgical induced menopause estrogen levels drop slightly, and progesterone levels drop drastically. Without sufficient progesterone to keep estrogen in check, estrogen becomes the dominant hormone. This leads to problems such as weight gain, insomnia, thyroid dysfunction, and depression. Synthetic estrogens, because of their considerably stronger effects, can further increase some of these symptoms, and increase the risk of cancer, strokes and heart attacks; due to the formation of blood clots, and disrupts the attempt of the body to normalize it's own hormonal balance.

Though not widely known, the adrenal glands also form estrogens, progesterone, and testosterone. These hormones are produced in much lower amounts than is produced by the ovaries, but they do help provide a cushion when the ovaries shut down, or are removed preventing a hormone "crash".

It should be understood that menopause is not a disorder. Menopause is a normal hormonal transition. The body will adapt to the transition in time if external hormones do not disrupt it, including those found in the meat and milk of most farm-raised animals or by xenoestrogens. Plant hormones, such as phytoestrogens and diosgenin help ease this transition.

Though estrogen can be dangerous, it is not all bad. Estrogen does protect bones from breaking down, although progesterone does more by stimulating bone growth. Estrogen also converts into testosterone, which plays a role in female sexual desire. When elevated to excessively high levels in the blood though, as for example during menopause, with estrogen replacement therapy or the use of birth control pills, serious side effects such as cancer and blood clots may occur.

The source of one popular pharmaceutical estrogen, Premarin, may surprise you. This estrogen is named for the source it is derived from, PREgnant MARes urINe. Premarin is several thousand times stronger than the estrogens produced by the body, greatly increasing the risk of serious side effects.

There are safe alternatives to estrogen replacement therapy. Many plants contain natural estrogens, known as phytoestrogens. These estrogens are around 200-400 times weaker than human estrogens. Their weak estrogenic effect helps to balance hormone levels. When estrogen levels are low they can provide a weak estrogenic effect. When estrogen levels are elevated though, these estrogens lock up estrogen receptor sites preventing the formation of cancer, and other dangerous side effects of estrogens. Phytoestrogens may also provide some protection against synthetic estrogens, known as xenoestrogens, including dioxin, DDT, and PCB's.

Bioflavonoids are best known for their synergistic effect with vitamin C though like phytoestrogens, bioflavonoids have the ability to block excessive estrogens, and protect the body from cancer.

Ingredients:

Prepared rehmannia root- Used in Chinese medicine to alleviate night sweats (hot flashes), palpitations, insomnia, constipation, menstrual irregularities, and to lower cholesterol.

Vitex (chaste tree berry)- Stimulates the pituitary gland resulting in an increased level of progesterone. Source of bioflavonoids.

Black cohosh- Historically used to balance hormones and control hot flashes.

Huang bai (phellodendron)- Used in Chinese medicine for night sweats.

Motherwort- Used to control hot flashes, heart palpitations, and to calm the nerves.

Hu zhang (Knotweed Rhizome)- Very rich source of phytoestrogens and resveratrol.

Zhi mu (anemarrhena)- Used in Chinese medicine for night sweats.

Wild yam- Contains diosgenin, which has weak progesteorone-like activity. Wild yam also strengthens the adrenal glands, which assists with hormone balance.

Ge gen (kudzu)- Source of phytoestrogens, strengthens the heart, may assist with hormonal migraines.

Red clover - Contains 4 phytoestrogens, including the same 2 found in soy. Helps regulate hormone balance and protect the body from cancer and other side effects of estrogen dominance.

Alfalfa- The richest source of phytoestrogens. Excellent source of nutrients, including calcium and trace minerals. Nourishes the pituitary gland, which aids I hormone balance.

Suan zao ren (jujube date seed)- Used in Chinese medicine for night sweats, anxiety, insomnia, and palpitations.

Chinese licorice root- High in phytoestrogens. Supports and nourishes the adrenal glands. More calming than the American variety.

Sargasso seaweed- Contains phytoestrogens and B vitamins, which help support proper hormone balance. Supports and nourishes the thyroid, adrenal and pituitary glands. Rich in calcium and trace minerals needed for bone formation and strength.

Boron- Strengthens bones and has been shown to prevent bone loss in the absence of estrogen replacement therapy. Has a beneficial effect on hormone balance.

Natural Peach-Mango Flavoring

Recommended use is 1/2 teaspoon of the powder 3 times daily on an empty stomach at least 20 minutes before meals. The powder can be mixed in juice, water, or unsweetened applesauce, or may be placed under the tongue and washed down with water.