Date published: 01.09.08 - not release date

Herbs-can they really ease menopausal symptoms?

PRESS RELEASE

For immediate release: 11 May 2006

Herbs – can they really ease menopausal symptoms?

Many women use herbal medicines to ease troublesome symptoms like hot flushes and night sweats. But do herbs really work and, most importantly, are they safe?

In the Spring 2006 issue of The Menopause Exchange newsletter, herbalist Julia Green (who has a special interest in women’s health) takes a look at herbs used for menopausal symptoms. In her article, she covers popular herbs like black cohosh and agnus castus, exploring the research behind their use and their safety. She also describes what happens when you visit a herbalist.

“Herbal medicines are more popular than ever,” says Norma Goldman, founder and director of The Menopause Exchange. “There is research to show that they can ease certain menopausal symptoms like hot flushes, but it is important that women buy reputable products or visit a qualified medical herbalist. Not all herbs are suitable for everyone.”

The Menopause Exchange covers a wide range of subjects like menopausal symptoms, HRT and its alternatives, nutrition and lifestyle and medical conditions (e.g. breast cancer). It is completely independent – it is not sponsored by any companies and is funded purely by subscriptions. Other articles in the Spring 2006 issue include HRT hormones (part one of three articles), vaginal dryness and screening for women over 40. The Menopause Exchange has an Ask the Experts panel and fact sheets specifically for members.

For more info on The Menopause Exchange, write to The Menopause Exchange at PO Box 205, Bushey, Herts WD23 1ZS, call 020 8420 7245, fax 020 8954 2783 or send an e-mail to norma@menopause-exchange.co.uk

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NOTES FOR EDITORS

1.The Menopause Exchange Newsletter was launched in June 1999.

2.The founder and director of The Menopause Exchange is Norma Goldman, a pharmacist with a Master’s degree in health promotion. She gives talks on the menopause at health clubs, organisations/workplaces, pharmacies and other venues. Her daughter, Victoria, the editor of the newsletter, is an experienced health journalist with a BSc. degree in Biomedical Science and a Master’s degree in Science Communication.

3.The aim of The Menopause Exchange is to raise the awareness of the menopause among women, healthcare professionals (e.g. nurses and pharmacists) and complementary practitioners.

4.Topics covered in previous issues of the newsletter include: HRT questions you forget to ask your doctor; osteoporosis treatments; sexuality after the menopause; complementary therapies at the menopause; heart disease; memory problems; anti-ageing beauty secrets; weight control; and phytoestrogens in your diet.

5.UK annual membership (4 issues of the newsletter and regular fact sheets) costs £18 for individuals; £22 for local organisations; £30 for companies/national organisations; corporate (over 10 copies) and overseas memberships are available on request.

6.All press enquiries to Norma Goldman on 020 8420 7245.