You suddenly feel waves of heat, sleep poorly, wake up tired, and your mood is no longer what it used to be. If you feel unlike yourself, know that you’re not exaggerating: your body is changing, in its own way.
The good news is that plant-based supplements may support your well-being during this stage, provided you choose them carefully. This guide explains what to look for, which ingredients have been studied most, and why not all products on the market are the same.
Menopause: what is really happening in your body
When oestrogen levels begin to fall, the body can respond in many different ways. Hot flushes are only the tip of the iceberg: difficult nights, sudden sweating, mood swings, irritability, irregular periods and fatigue that does not go away with rest can also occur.
This happens because oestrogens play an important role in many of the body's systems, not just the reproductive system. When their levels decline, every system can be affected.
perimenopause can last for years before periods stop completely. Many women go through this phase without realising that hormones may already be contributing to their symptoms, and wait too long before looking after themselves.
For those seeking a natural approach to well-being during this stage, herbal medicine offers plant-based ingredients with a long history of use and growing scientific interest.
Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa): one of the most studied plants for menopause well-being
When it comes to menopause supplements, black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) is the ingredient you hear about most often, and for good reason. It is one of the most clinically studied plants in this area and one of the most widely used in Europe to support women's well-being during this stage.
Native to North America, black cohosh acts on the nervous system rather than on hormones, interacting with certain receptors involved in regulating body temperature and mood. This explains why several studies have investigated its contribution to menopausal comfort, particularly in relation to hot flushes, sweating and emotional well-being.
One particularly interesting aspect is its mechanism of action: unlike phytoestrogens, it does not bind to oestrogen receptors. This makes it an option some women may wish to discuss with their doctor, especially if they prefer or need to avoid substances with oestrogen-like activity.
For more comprehensive support for well-being during menopause, black cohosh is often combined with other plant-based ingredients with established traditions of use: soy isoflavones (among the most studied natural phytoestrogens), sage (traditionally associated with women's well-being and sweating) and passionflower (for emotional well-being and restful sleep). Together, they address different aspects of this stage, which rarely occur in isolation.
ADHUC®: a formula designed for women during menopause
If you are looking for a supplement that combines all four plants in defined, standardised doses, NaturalSalus ADHUC® was formulated with precisely this aim. Black cohosh, soy isoflavones, sage and passionflower are brought together in a single plant-based capsule, free from gluten, lactose and preservatives, and also suitable for vegans.
The formula is designed to address several aspects of women's well-being during menopause and perimenopause: everyday comfort, emotional balance and night-time rest. It is also suitable for women of childbearing age who want natural support for menstrual well-being.
As with all supplements, results vary from person to person. Continuous use for at least 2–3 months is recommended, and you should consult your doctor, especially if you are taking any medication.
Frequently asked questions about menopause supplements
Do menopause supplements contain hormones?
No. Supplements such as ADHUC® contain phytoestrogens, plant-derived compounds with a structure similar to oestrogen, as well as traditionally used plants such as black cohosh and passionflower. They are not synthetic hormones and are not equivalent to hormone replacement therapy.
How long does it take to notice the first results?
Plant-based supplements take time to become part of a daily routine. The time needed varies from person to person. Continuous use for at least 2–3 months is generally recommended to assess their contribution to your well-being.
Are there situations in which you should consult a doctor before taking it?
Yes. You should always talk to your doctor before taking any supplement, particularly if you are taking medication, have liver disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a specific hormonal condition. Your doctor can assess your individual circumstances appropriately.
