Menopause

Herbs

Lady's mantle: Alchemilla molis can be used but A. xanthoechlora is preferable. Caution A. xanthrochlora is more potent, do not use if pregnant.

Red clover: A plant that grows best under harsh conditions, red clover favors hot sunshine and poor soil.

Motherwort: This plant is a strong grower. Pinch out the top leaves from each stem in late spring. Caution Avoid high doses if pregnant.

Purple sage: An everygreen shrub, purple sage has reddish purple textured foliage with mauve-blue flowers that appear in early summer. Caution Avoid it epilepic. Avoid high doses if pregnant.

St. Johns wort: Oil glands, which appear as tine preformations can be seen if the leaves of St. John's wort are held up in the light. Caution Prolonged use can lead to photosensitivty.

Gathering

Red clover flowers as they appear. Pick aerial parts of St. Johns wort, motherwort, and lady's mantle when in flower. Pick aerial parts of purple sage as needed.

Remedies

Syrup for a hot flash

Chop up four leaves each of purple sage and motherswort. Make 1/2 cup of syrup. Add the chopped herbs. Heat for 15 minitues. Let cool, then strain. Place in a dropper bottle and take several drops at the onset of a hot flash.

Tonic Tea

For a general tonic tea put two teaspoons of each herb in a teapot and ad boling water. Allow to steep for 10 minitues. Strain and drink either hot or cold. A cup of this tea can be taken up to three times a day but should not be taken more.