16 Science-backed Natural Remedies to Cure Hot Flashes!

Menopause is the fact of life. One of the major symptoms of menopause or perimenopause (the period before actual menopause) is night sweats, hot flashes. It is basically a deep sensation on the upper portion of the body.

Well, some women do not experience such flashes at all while some experience it a couple of years before menopause starts and it might continue even after the menopause.

In hot flashes there is a quick feeling of heat in the upper part of the body accompanied by sweating and flushed red face, tingling in the fingers, your heart beat increases (for 20-30 minutes), anxiety, lack of concentration, unconsciousness,  insomnia, irritability, impaired memory, depression and mood swings,  are commonly perceived by the women.

The surrounding in which you are sitting also affects the intensity of hot flashes, so, females should totally avoid sitting in hot areas. Hot flashes are experienced by women probably due to decline in the levels of estrogen and progesterone just before menopause.

They can also be triggered by wearing tight clothes, consuming caffeinated drinks and alcohol, having spicy food, smoking, etc.

Home Remedies to Cure Hot Flashes

1. Apple cider vinegar

Again you have ACV with you which now can save you from hot flashes. ACV acts as a panacea and is one of the most effective home remedies for hot flashes. Take a glass of warm milk and mix ½ tbsp. of baking soda and one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in it. Drink this mixture on an empty stomach half an hour before every meal. Always dilute organic apple cider vinegar before consuming.

2. Flax seed

Flax seeds contain substances similar to estrogen that aids in eliminating the symptoms of menopause. Use flaxseed oil while cooking or include flax seed in your diet. The alpha-linolenic acid present in flaxseed convert into omega-3 fatty acids, in the body, after consumption. This conversion is considered good for heart health. Consult your doctor before having flaxseed supplements.

3. Omega 3 fatty acids

Omega-3 fatty acids work in reducing cholesterol levels and risk of stroke. You must have at least 2 servings of fish every day. It absorbs extra cholesterol and also provides relief from the hot flash. Fish oil can increase the risk of bleeding, especially if you take blood-thinners such as warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix) etc.

4. Calcium

Women above fifty, require calcium as they bear the risk of osteoporosis due to the decline in levels of estrogen. Make sure that you consume 1200 mg approx. of calcium in your everyday diet. Include dairy products, fish, eggs, blackstrap molasses, green leafy vegetables, almonds, dried beans in your daily diet.

5. Soy

Researchers say that soy has estrogen-like compounds, called isoflavones, which help reduce vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and mood swings. But some differ, as they believe that isoflavones supplements, cause breast cancer. So, the safer option is to include foods rich in soy in your diet instead of ingesting supplements. Tofu, soy nuts, soy milk, and tempeh are good sources of soy. Seek advice from a doctor for better guidance about the use of soy.

6. Sage

Enjoy the herbal sage tea on a regular basis to get rid of hot flashes. Put sage leaves in hot water for 5 minutes. Steep, strain and drink this herbal decoction.

7. Red clover

Red clover is very effective when you perceive the symptoms of menopause like breast pain, hot flashes, and premenstrual symptom. Boil red clover in water and drink this solution. It has both positive and negative results. Some women might feel change and some may not. Red clover might have harmful effects on hormone-sensitive tissues, like uterus or breasts. Moreover, it may also interact with other medications such as blood thinners, birth control pills, etc. so consult your doctor before having this.

8. Chamomile tea

Put some chamomile leaves in water for 10-15 minutes. Steep and strain this decoction. Drink it three times a day to get relief from colitis, fever, hot flash, headaches, and menstrual pain.

9. Licorice root

Add 1 tsp. of licorice root in a cup of hot water for 20 minutes. Steep and strain. Drink it once a day. This herb functions to adjust and boosting up the hormone metabolism, thus, regulating the hormonal imbalance caused by menopause. Long-term usage is not recommended. Do not overdose this extract as it may be dangerous.

10. Lemon balm

Prepare a fresh cup of tea from fresh lemon balm leaves or you can also take a few drops of its tincture. Lemon balm oil can also be used. This herb is quite effective as it helps relax the digestive system and circulatory system by lowering blood pressure, relieving from heartburn, gas, and upset stomach. Do not consume more than 30 drops.

11. Lavender tea

Lavender tea helps in treating headaches, nervousness, muscle spasms, etc., that are caused due to change in hormones during menopause. Drink lavender tea before going to bed for effective results.

12. Evening primrose oil

Be careful while using this oil. Apply this oil to your breasts, vagina or on the affected area to get relief from pain, hot flashes and other symptoms of menopause. Do not use evening primrose oil with anticoagulants. Consult your doctor before trying out these herbal remedies.

13. Black cohosh

Black cohosh is commonly used in treating the symptoms of menopause, premenstrual syndrome, weakened bones, menstrual pain, and starting of labor pain in pregnant women. Take at least 20 mg of black cohosh on regular basis or as directed by your physician.

14. Dong Quai

Apply cream containing dong Quai after consulting with your doctor. Dong Quai is used for the treatment of menstrual cramps, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and menopausal symptoms. Women having blood clotting problems or those on drugs like warfarin for blood thinning must consult their doctors before using this as this may lead to excessive bleeding.

15. Ginseng

The dosage of ginseng depends on the nature of ailment and also varies from person to person. You need to be cautious with few herbs. Take this after consulting your doctor. Ginseng is used to cure cancer, heart diseases, menopausal symptoms, hepatitis C, fatigue, high blood pressure and related conditions.

16. Pycnogenol

Take this in a limited amount. Only 50-100 mg of pycnogenol must be taken 2-3 times a day for effective results. It helps in alleviating diseases related to the reproductive system, painful menstruation, menopausal symptoms, etc.

Tips to remember

• Consume foodstuffs rich in vitamin D, as they help absorb calcium
• Prefer an air-conditioned room and keep away from direct sunlight
• Exercise regularly
• vitamin C and E must be consumed
• Sip cold water slowly to get relief from heat rash
• Wear cotton and loose fitted clothes at night
• Practice yoga, breathing exercises, meditation, and acupuncture therapy to relax
• Involve yourself in activities like swimming, listening to music, etc.
• Have cool shower
• Don’t stress
• Stay away from diet control pills, spicy and oily food
• Avoid caffeinated drinks like tea, coffee
• Do not smoke
• Say ‘NO’ to alcohol
• Avoid stepping out in heat
• Do not wear tight clothes.