Menopause Support By Pathway To Healing Overview & Drug Interactions

Dong quai (Angelica sinensis) is a plant native to Asia and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is often referred to as "female ginseng" and is used to treat a variety of health conditions, particularly those related to the female reproductive system. It is also claimed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties as well as an ability to improve blood circulation. When utilized for dietary supplements, the root of Dong quai is used.

Hops are the female flowers (also known as cones) of the hop plant, Humulus lupulus, and a member of the Cannabaceae family. Hops are native to Europe and are widely cultivated in many parts of the world. Hops have a variety of applications, such as for food flavoring and brewing beer. Hops extract has been used in topical medicinal preparations and as a dietary supplement.

Sage (Salvia officinalis) is a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is widely cultivated for its fragrant leaves and its culinary uses. Sage has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is purported to have a number of potential health benefits. It is thought to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, and it is used to treat a variety of conditions, including digestive disorders, respiratory conditions, and skin problems. Sage is also sometimes used as a natural remedy for anxiety and stress.

Licorice, also known as glycyrrhiza, is a plant native to parts of Europe, Asia, and the Mediterranean region. The root of the plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and is often consumed in the form of candy, tea, and supplements. Licorice has a number of purported health benefits, including the ability to soothe sore throats, reduce inflammation, and improve digestive problems. It may also have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Licorice naturally contains glycyrrhizin, or glycyrrhizic acid, which can have toxic effects if consumed in large amounts. However, licorice can be processed to remove glycyrrhizin, resulting in DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice). Many dietary supplements that contain deglycyrrhizinated licorice are often simply named 'DGL'.

Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) is a perennial plant native to North America and is sometimes referred to as "black snakeroot" or "bugbane". Black cohosh is often taken as a supplement to help with menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes. It is also sometimes used to help with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and other menstrual issues. Black cohosh supplements are typically standardized for their triterpene glycoside content.

Vinpocetine is a synthetic compound that is derived from the alkaloid vincamine, which is found in the periwinkle plant (Vinca minor). It is used as a dietary supplement and is claimed to have a number of potential health benefits, including improving memory and cognitive function, increasing blood flow to the brain, and reducing inflammation. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), in 2019, issued a warning that those who are pregnant or who could become pregnant should avoid vinpocetine due to safety concerns.

Boron is a trace mineral that is found in a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes. It is also available as a dietary supplement. Boron is thought to play a role in bone health, as it may help the body metabolize calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. Some preliminary research also suggests that boron may have anti-inflammatory effects and may help to improve cognitive function. However, more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits. It is important to note that boron is not an essential nutrient and deficiency is rare. The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for boron is not established, however, the safe upper limit is 20mg/day. Taking high doses of boron can cause skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. There are several patented forms of boron available in dietary supplements, such as Albion Bororganic Glycine.