Menopause and Chastetree
What is the menopause?
The menopause is the natural transition in a woman’s life that marks the end of the fertile years. It usually occurs between the ages of 49 and 52, when periods stop permanently and hormone levels drop. During this time, hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone change, which can lead to physical and emotional symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disorders and mood swings. The transition takes place in three phases: Perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause. During the postmenopause, oestrogen levels remain low and many symptoms subside but may still occur. The menopause is a completely natural process that is individual to each woman and also represents an opportunity for a new phase of life and a conscious reorganisation of well-being.
What is monk’s pepper?
Monk’s pepper is a plant that is also known as ‘chaste tree’ or ‘Vitex agnus-castus’. It has been used in naturopathy for centuries, especially to support women during the menopause and menstrual cycle. The plant has a special effect on the endocrine system and helps to regulate hormone levels. Monk’s pepper is often used to alleviate symptoms such as irregular periods, PMS or hot flushes. The natural ingredients can promote the balance of hormones in the body, especially the ratio of oestrogen and progesterone. It is an herbal aid that supports many women during the menopause or with cycle disorders.
How does monk’s pepper help with the menopause?
During the menopause, oestrogen levels fall, which can lead to a variety of unpleasant symptoms. Monk’s pepper contains substances that are similar to human sex hormones and support the hormonal system. Monk’s pepper has a special effect on dopamine, a substance in the brain that influences our mood and emotions. Dopamine helps to reduce the influence of prolactin. Prolactin is a hormone that can be responsible for complaints such as breast tenderness, irritability and mood swings, especially during the menopause. Monk’s pepper supports the production of dopamine, which helps to balance prolactin levels and thereby alleviate unpleasant symptoms associated with the menopause.
Studies have shown that monk’s pepper can have a calming effect on the hormonal system in menopausal women. It is also used to reduce symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disturbances and mood swings caused by hormonal changes during this phase of life. Although the exact mechanism of action has not yet been fully researched, many women have had positive experiences with the use of monk’s pepper and report noticeable relief from symptoms. It is therefore a natural alternative for living through the menopause with more ease and increasing well-being.
Hormonal changes during the menopause
During the menopause, the levels of important hormones change, which can lead to a variety of physical and emotional symptoms. Each of these hormones has specific roles in the body, and their changes play a central role in the transition from the fertile phase to postmenopause.
Estrogen
Estrogen is the most important female sex hormone and regulates the menstrual cycle, promotes the growth of the uterine lining and also has an influence on the skin, cardiovascular system and bones. During the menopause, estrogen levels drop dramatically, leading to typical symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disorders and vaginal dryness. The drop in oestrogen also favours the risk of osteoporosis, as it plays a key role in bone metabolism.
FSH – The follicle stimulating hormone
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is necessary to stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs and ovulate. During the perimenopause and menopause, FSH levels rise because the ovaries react less to the hormone. This leads to irregular menstrual cycles, as ovulation occurs less and less frequently until it stops altogether.
Testosterone
Testosterone, which is also found in smaller amounts in women, influences muscle mass, sexual desire and general energy levels. During the menopause, testosterone levels fall, which can lead to a decline in sexual desire and muscle strength.
Progesterone
Progesterone plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and preparing the uterine lining for a possible pregnancy. During the menopause, progesterone levels fall, leading to irregular periods. Progesterone deficiency can also cause symptoms such as sleep disorders and mood swings, as this hormone has a calming effect on the body.
LH – The luteinising hormone
Luteinising hormone (LH) works together with FSH and plays an important role in ovulation. LH levels also increase during the menopause as the ovaries become less sensitive to both hormones. This increase contributes to hormonal fluctuations that increase symptoms such as hot flushes and irregularities in the menstrual cycle.
These hormonal changes are the main cause of the symptoms of the menopause. While they can vary in intensity for each woman, the changes in these five hormones play a central role in the course of the menopause and can cause many of the typical symptoms.
Conclusion on menopause and monk’s pepper
Menopause is much more than just the end of menstruation – it marks the beginning of a profound physical and emotional transformation. This stage of life can be challenging for many women, as it is accompanied by numerous physical changes and hormonal fluctuations. But menopause also offers a valuable opportunity for a fresh start: It provides the chance to view one’s life from a new perspective and consciously use the changes to set new life goals and priorities. Chasteberry can help women navigate this phase more easily. The plant helps regulate hormonal balance, alleviate typical menopausal symptoms, and enhance well-being during menopause. With a deep understanding of this natural phase of life and the right support measures, women can enter this new phase of life feeling self-determined and empowered and face the challenges with confidence.
