Q3 Any supplements have the potential to interact with medications and it's always wise to speak with a trusted member of your healthcare team before trying a new one. Supplements containing licorice root, for example, can raise blood pressure, and so they should not be used with anyone with hypertension in their original form, although deglycyrrhizinated licorice or DGL licorice is an exception. This is a type of licorice that has been processed in such a way that it will not raise blood pressure.
Black cohosh and red clover have conflicting clinical evidence. According to the majority of extensive reviews, their effects on sleep disturbances and hot flashes are erratic and frequently on par with placebo. Red clover extracts, particularly those high in biochanin A, that provide 40 to 80 milligrams of isoflavones daily have been studied where benefits are observed. Many standardized extracts of black cohosh provide approximately 1 milligram of triterpene glycosides per day, and doses ranging from 8 to 160 milligrams have been tested. Users who experience dark urine or abdominal pain should stop using the product right away because liver-related side effects have been reported on occasion. Although there is still little scientific proof, dong quai and chasteberry have long been used to promote hormonal balance. While chasteberry has greater effects on premenstrual regulation than menopause, dong quai has not demonstrated a discernible improvement in hot flashes in controlled studies. Standardized chasteberry extracts, ranging from 20 to 40 milligrams per day, have been widely used; however, product consistency and formulation quality differ greatly. The main issue with licorice root is safety. Licorice that contains glycyrrhizin can cause abnormal heart rhythms, lower potassium, and raise blood pressure. Those who have kidney or cardiovascular problems, or who take corticosteroids or diuretics, are more at risk. Although deglycyrrhizinated forms eliminate the blood-pressure-raising substance, they are not meant to alleviate menopausal symptoms. When selecting plant-based supplements, anyone should speak with a clinician to assess potential interactions and, if necessary, take into account safer, scientifically supported treatments.