Research: ROTEM and KAPLAN,

Listed in Issue 151

Abstract

ROTEM and KAPLAN, Felsenstein Medical Research Center, Beilinson Campus, Petah Tiqva, Israel, have studied a herbal complex for menopausal symptoms.

Background

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy and safety of the herbal formula Phyto-Female Complex (SupHerb, Netanya, Israel; ingredients: standardized extracts of black cohosh, dong quai, milk thistle, red clover, American ginseng, chaste-tree berry) for the relief of menopausal symptoms.

Methodology

A randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in 50 healthy pre and postmenopausal women, aged 44-65 years, to whom oral Phyto-Female Complex or matched placebo was prescribed twice daily for 3 months. A structured questionnaire on the frequency and intensity of menopausal symptoms was administered weekly from one week before throughout the 3-month treatment period, followed by biochemical tests, breast check, and transvaginal ultrasonography.

Results

The women receiving Phyto-Female Complex reported a significantly greater mean reduction in menopausal symptoms than the placebo group. The effect of treatment improvements in menopausal symptoms increased over time; by 3 months there was a 73% decrease in hot flushes and a 69% reduction of night sweats, accompanied by a decrease in their intensity and a significant benefit in terms of sleep quality. Hot flushes ceased completely in 47% of women in the study group compared with only 19% in the placebo group. There were no changes in findings on vaginal ultrasonography or levels of relevant hormones (estradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone), liver enzymes or thyroid-stimulating hormone in either group.

Conclusion

Phyto-Female Complex is safe and effective for the relief of hot flushes and sleep disturbances in pre- and postmenopausal women, at least for 3 months' use.

References

Rotem C, Kaplan B. Phyto-Female Complex for the relief of hot flushes, night sweats and quality of sleep: randomized, controlled, double-blind pilot study. Gynecological Endocrinology 23 (2): 117-122, Feb 2007.

Comment

The results from the above studies indicate that these herbal preparations show efficacy in the relief of menopausal symptoms in women. The researchers have taken into account that these remedies reach their full effectiveness after three months.

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