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Balance (Heat)


CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

* Menopause and its associated conditions:

¡± Hot flashes

¡± Night sweats

¡± Insomnia

¡± Mood swings, emotional instability and irritability

* Related symptoms such as restless sleep, crying spells, and disorientation

 

WESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* Endocrine activities to balance female hormones and ease common symptoms associated with menopause

* Antidepressant action to settle the emotions and stabilize moods

* Sedative function to treat insomnia and restless sleep

* Osteoprotective function to promote bone formation and antiosteoporotic effect to treat osteoporosis

 

CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* Nourishes yin

* Clears deficiency heat

* Calms the shen (spirit)

* Stops perspiration

 

DOSAGE

Take 3 to 4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach with warm water. Take the last dose half an hour before bedtime if hot flashes, insomnia, restless sleep or night sweating are especially worse at night. For severe conditions, gradually increase the dosage to 8 to 10 capsules three times daily until symptoms are controlled. After relief of symptoms, dosage can then be reduced to 3 to 4 capsules daily.

 

INGREDIENTS


Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba)

Bie Jia (Carapax Trionycis)

Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri)

Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae)

Di Gu Pi (Cortex Lycii)

Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae)

Fu Xiao Mai (Fructus Tritici Levis)

Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae)

Huang Bo (Cortex Phellodendri Chinensis)

Mu Dan Pi (Cortex Moutan)

Qing Hao (Herba Artemisiae Annuae)

Shou Wu Teng (Caulis Polygoni Multiflori)

Xiao Mai (Fructus Tritici)

Zhi Mu (Rhizoma Anemarrhenae)


 

BACKGROUND

Menopause is the cessation of menses (amenorrhea) for at least one year due to decreasing ovarian function. Clinical symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, emotional instability, irritability, and osteoporosis. Menopause generally begins at approximately 49 to 50 years of age, and the transition may last between three to five years.

 

FORMULA EXPLANATION

The chief cause of imbalance in women during menopause is Kidney yin deficiency with deficiency heat. The treatment protocol to address the hot flashes, mood swings and night sweats is to clear the deficiency heat and nourish the yin. The patient may also have irritability and emotional instability because of Liver qi stagnation.

        Xiao Mai (Fructus Tritici) nourishes the shen (spirit) of the Heart and treats excessive worrying or anxiety. Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri) works with Xiao Mai (Fructus Tritici) to regulate nervousness, irritability, and mood swings by spreading the stagnant Liver qi. Qing Hao (Herba Artemisiae Annuae), Zhi Mu (Rhizoma Anemarrhenae) and Mu Dan Pi (Cortex Moutan) reduce hot flashes and heat sensations by clearing deficiency heat. Bie Jia (Carapax Trionycis) and Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae) nourish the Kidney jing (essence) and replenish vitality that is lost through normal aging. Fu Xiao Mai (Fructus Tritici Levis) stops abnormal perspiration. Shou Wu Teng (Caulis Polygoni Multiflori) nourishes the Heart blood, pacifies nerves, and treats insomnia and nervousness. Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae), Xiao Mai (Fructus Tritici) and Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae), the three herbs that make up the formula Gan Mai Da Zao Tang (Licorice, Wheat, and Jujube Decoction), nourish the blood of the Heart and moisten internal organ dryness. Finally, Di Gu Pi (Cortex Lycii) and Huang Bo (Cortex Phellodendri Chinensis) drain yin-deficient fire to control flare-ups of hot flashes.

        In summary, Balance (Heat) is an excellent formula to address all imbalances associated with menopause.

 

CAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS

* This formula is contraindicated in cases of cold and deficiency.

* Allergy warning: Xiao Mai (Fructus Tritici) used in this formula contains wheat. Persons with allergy to wheat should not take this product.

 

CLINICAL NOTES

* Balance (Heat) and Nourish are two of the most commonly used formulas for menopause.

¡± Balance (Heat) is stronger to clear deficiency heat, and relieve symptoms such as hot flashes and emotional disturbance.

¡± Nourish is more effective to tonify the underlying Kidney yin deficiency, and alleviate conditions such as thirst, dryness, and atrophy of genitourinary tissues.

* Balance (Heat) and Nourish are both safe formulas that can be used throughout the entire menopause period. Generally, Balance (Heat) is given first to alleviate the menopause symptoms. When the condition is under control, then switch over to Nourish to tonify yin and consolidate the effect.

 

Pulse Diagnosis by Dr. Jimmy Wei-Yen Chang:

* Kidney yang deficiency: small pulse on the left chi

* Kidney yin deficiency: Taiyang pulse, a thick, long, wiry, forceful pulse on the left chi is often associated with hormone imbalance. If the Taiyang pulse is found on both chi positions and the palms are hot, advice the patient to avoid estrogen drugs as they significantly increase the risk of breast cancer.

 

SUPPLEMENTARY FORMULAS

* To address the cause of menopause by tonifying the Kidney yin and reduce deficiency heat, add Nourish.

* To only tonify Kidney yin and jing (essence), add Kidney Tonic (Yin).

* For emotional instability, irritability, and mood swings, combine with Calm.

* For severe shen (spirit) disturbance with insomnia, combine with Calm (ES).

* For menopause with stress, insomnia and fatigue, add Calm ZZZ.

* For depression or crying spells, add Shine.

* For vaginal dryness, add Balance Spring.

* For vaginitis, add V-Support.

* For prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, add Osteo 8.

* For fibrocystic disorders of the female reproductive organs, use Resolve (Lower).

* For benign breast tumors, mastitis, and nodules, use Resolve (Upper)).

* For hair loss, combine with Polygonum 14.

* For constipation, use Gentle Lax (Deficient).

* For lack of libido, or Kidney yang deficiency, add Vitality.

* For poor memory and forgetfulness, use with Enhance Memory.

* For hypertension, add Gastrodia Complex.

* For thirst and dryness due to Lung and Stomach yin deficiencies, add Nourish (Fluids).

 

ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT

Traditional Points:

* Taixi (KI 3), Taichong (LR 3)

* Shenmen (HT 7), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Xinshu (BL 15), Ganshu (BL 18), Pishu (BL 20), Feishu (BL 13), Shenshu (BL 23), Taixi (KI 3), Yinlingquan (SP 9)

 

Classic Master Tung's Points:

* Menopause (general): Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Minghuang (T 88.12), Qihuang (T 88.14), Shuijin (T 1010.20), Zhenjing (T 1010.08), Xinling (T 33.17)*, Simashang (T 88.18), Simazhong (T 88.17), Simaxia (T 88.19)

* Hot flashes: Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Minghuang (T 88.12), Qihuang (T 88.14), Shuijin (T 1010.20), Zhenjing (T 1010.08), Xinling (T 33.17)*, Simashang (T 88.18), Simazhong (T 88.17), Simaxia (T 88.19)

* Mood swings: Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Minghuang (T 88.12), Qihuang (T 88.14), Shuijin (T 1010.20), Zhenjing (T 1010.08), Xinling (T 33.17)*, Simashang (T 88.18), Simazhong (T 88.17), Simaxia (T 88.19), Fuke (T 11.24), Wanshunyi (T 22.08), Wanshuner (T 22.09), Shuixiang (T 66.14)

* Irregular menstruation: Fuke (T 11.24), Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Minghuang (T 88.12), Qihuang (T 88.14), Shuijin (T 1010.20), Zhenjing (T 1010.08), Xinling (T 33.17)*, Simashang (T 88.18), Simazhong (T 88.17), Simaxia (T 88.19), Wanshunyi (T 22.08), Wanshuner (T 22.09)

* Osteoporosis: Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Minghuang (T 88.12), Qihuang (T 88.14), Fuke (T 11.24), Zhengji (T 44.24)*

 

Master Tung¡¦s Points by Dr. Chuan-Min Wang:

* Menopause: Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Minghuang (T 88.12)

 

Balance Method by Dr. Richard Tan:

* Left side: Waiguan (TH 5), Hegu (LI 4), Yangxi (LI 5), Linggu (T 22.05), Sanyinjiao (SP 6), Yinlingquan (SP 9), Fuliu (KI 7), Rangu (KI 2), Dazhong (KI 4), Fuliu (KI 7)

* Right side: Tongli (HT 5), Daling (PC 7), Tianquan (PC 2), Zulinqi (GB 41), ah shi points from Zusanli (ST 36) to Fenglong (ST 40)

* Hot flashes

¡P   Left side: Houxi (SI 3), Xiaohai (SI 8), Taichong (LR 3), Ququan (LR 8)

¡P   Right side: Shaohai (HT 3), Shenmen (HT 7), Yanglingquan (GB 34), Zulinqi (GB 41)

* Left and right sides can be alternated from treatment to treatment.

 

Ear Acupuncture:

* Uterus, Ovary, Endocrine, Sympathetic, Subcortex

¡P   For emotional disorders, add Shenmen and Heart.

¡P   For palpitations and irregular heartbeat, add Heart and Small Intestine.

¡P   For flushed cheeks, excess perspiration, add Cheeks and Lung.

 

Auricular Medicine by Dr. Li-Chun Huang:

* Menopause: Uterus, Endocrine, Ovary, Gonadotropin, Pituitary, Sympathetic, Anxious, Kidney, Liver, Heart

* Relieving excessive sweating: Sympathetic, Thalamus, Heart, Lung, Spleen, Nervous Subcortex, corresponding sweating areas

 

NUTRITION

* Encourage a diet with a high content of raw foods, fruits and vegetables to stabilize blood sugar. Wild yam is very helpful to nourish yin and reduce menopause symptoms. Increase intake of nourishing roots such as radishes, potatoes, carrots, melons, cucumbers, beets, turnips, malanga, celeriac, taro, and rutabaga.

* Increase the intake of soy products such as tofu, soymilk and soy nuts. Soy products regulate the estrogen levels and are beneficial for menopause.

* Increase intake of cooling foods: tofu, tomato, celery, asparagus, bamboo, seaweed, kelp, bitter melon, cucumber, gourd, luffa, winter melon, oranges, grapefruit, pear, banana, papaya, watermelon, white radish, mustard leaf, potherb mustard, Chinese kale, napa cabbage, and bamboo sprout.

* Take Gou Qi Zi (Fructus Lycii) on a daily basis (mix with cereal or trail mix) to nourish Kidney yin.

* Gan Mai Da Zao Tang (Licorice, Wheat, and Jujube Decoction) can be used as tea on a daily basis.

* Avoid spicy/pungent/aromatic fruits and vegetables that are warm and may aggravate the condition, such as mango, durian, lychee, longan fruit, pepper, garlic, onions, basil, rosemary, cumin, fennel, anise, leeks, chives, scallions, thyme, saffron, wormwood, mustard, chili pepper, and wasabi.

* Avoid food/drinks with artificial coloring.

* Discourage dairy products and red meats, as they promote hot flashes.

* Consume as few meat products as possible. Do not eat meats such as lunch meats, hot dogs and sausages as they contain nitrites that are associated with inflammation and chronic disease.

 

The Tao of Nutrition by Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease:

* Menopause

¡P    Eat black beans, sesame seeds, soybeans, walnuts, goji berries, mulberries, yams, licorice, lotus seeds, and chrysanthemum flowers.

¡P    Avoid stress, tension, and all stimulants.

 

LIFESTYLE INSTRUCTIONS

* Avoid stress, tension, and anxiety as much as possible.

* Avoid cigarette smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke, as they may dry yin and body fluids.

* Natural progesterone cream can be applied every 15 minutes to help relieve hot flashes.

* Eliminate things that are potentially toxic (e.g., alcohol, coffee, cigarettes, refined sugars, saturated fats, and chemical-based household cleaners and personal hygiene products).

 

CASE STUDIES

* J.J., a 49-year-old female, presented with constipation and abdominal bloating. The patient had a history of having a bowel movement every other day to every three days since childhood. She was experiencing cold sensation and had been taking birth control pills for heavy bleeding. As a result of taking birth control pills, she would experience night sweats when she was taking the sugar pills or during her menses. Her blood pressure was 118/72 mmHg and her heart rate was 75 beats per minute. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as yin deficiency and stagnation; the western diagnosis was chronic constipation. Gentle Lax (Deficient) was prescribed at three capsules three times daily with warm water in combination with Balance (Heat) three to five capsules at night when she is not taking birth control pills. The patient was amazed with the results; she reported having regular daily bowl movements and relief of her bloating. In addition, she was no longer experiencing night sweats when she was on the sugar pill days of her birth control pills. Along with taking herbs the patient also received acupuncture twice weekly. Submitted by L.W., Arroyo Grande, California.

* J.M., a 54-year-old female, presented with hot flashes, which were especially bad at night, causing her to wake up constantly throughout the night. Pulse was deep and thin, and her tongue was dusky pink with a center crack. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as Kidney yin deficiency; her western diagnosis was menopause. Upon diagnosis, the patient was prescribed Nourish and Balance (Heat) up to five capsules three times a day. After taking the herbs for four weeks, the duration of the hot flashes was shorter and she was sleeping through the night. Submitted by T.W., Perrysburg, Ohio.

* S.S., a 55-year-old female, presented with menopause symptoms and experiencing hot flashes ten times a day. Additional symptoms included irritability and difficulty staying asleep. The patient also relied heavily on sleeping aids which resulted in grogginess. Furthermore, there was arthritis in her thumbs, a constant need to clear her throat, and some acid reflux. Her blood pressure was 120/80 mmHg and her heart rate was 78 beats per minute. The practitioner diagnosed the condition as yin deficiency and Liver qi stagnation. Balance (Heat) was prescribed at three capsules three times daily, combined with Calm, three capsules three times daily. The patient had very positive results. She reported feeling less irritable and was no longer experiencing hot flashes. Her sleep had also improved where she only needed to take sleeping aids occasionally. Lastly, her acid reflux had improved; however, it was still present when taking certain foods and wine. Submitted by L.W., Arroyo Grande, California.

* J.N., a 56-year-old female, presented with menopause symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, inability to stay asleep, and moodiness. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as Kidney yin deficiency. For treatment, the patient was prescribed Balance (Heat). As a result, her hot flashes and night sweats were reduced. Her sleep had improved slowly as well as her moodiness. Patient felt she had to continue taking the herbs since the symptoms returned once she stopped taking them. Submitted by S.L., Yuma, Arizona.

* F.R., a 56-year-old female, presented with multiple symptoms consisting of night sweats, irritability, and difficulty staying asleep. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as Liver yin deficiency. Upon diagnosis the patient was directed to take Balance (Heat) four capsules three times a day. As a result of taking the herbs for three months, she reported not having any more night sweats and only occasional sleeplessness and irritability. Submitted by S.L., Yuma, Arizona.

* C.R., a 56-year-old female, presented with hot flashes. Additional symptoms included difficulty sleeping, dry mouth, anxiety, and depression. It was noted that her palpitations and sweating were constant. The practitioner diagnosed this condition as Kidney yin-deficient heat. Nourish (Fluids), Kidney Tonic (Yin), and Balance (Heat) were prescribed. As a result of taking the Kidney Tonic (Yin) with Balance (Heat), she noticed less heat sensation, decrease in both anxiety and sleep difficulty, but she was still sweating slightly. Afterwards, taking Kidney Tonic (Yin) with Nourish (Fluids), the patient was no longer experiencing dry mouth and thirst. Submitted by J.C., Rosemead, California.

* M.K., a 50-year-old female, presented with a hot and flushed face, and very mild sweat one week before her menstrual cycle. Due to the sweating, she was unable to wear nylon or silk clothes. Blood pressure was 120/80 mmHg and her heart rate was 82 beats per minute. The pulse was thready and weak in the Kidney yin positions. The TCM diagnosis was Kidney yin deficiency with deficiency heat. Balance (Heat) was prescribed at 8 capsules twice daily. Symptoms resolved quickly after taking the herbs. She was then instructed to reduce the dosage to 4 capsules twice daily. Dietary changes were also made. Patient felt extremely grateful to the practitioner for prescribing the formula. Submitted by M.H., West Palm Beach, Florida.

* A 62-year-old saleslady initially presented with neck pain resulting from a car accident. She also had symptoms of night sweats and dry skin. The patient complained of feeling frustrated and had been gaining weight. Besides having smoked 1½ packs of cigarettes a day her whole life, the patient had been diagnosed with hypothyroid and was on 100 mcg of levothyroxine (Synthroid) per day. Her tongue was dusky red with a thick coat. Her pulse was choppy and rapid. The TCM diagnosis included Liver qi stagnation, Kidney yin and yang deficiency, and qi and blood stagnation. After 2 weeks of taking Balance (Heat), the patient commented, ¡§I feel much better overall and I definitely sleep better and am less irritable.¡¨ Submitted by F.A., Calabasas, California.

* A 44-year-old female nurse presented with irritability and approximately 60 hot flashes per day. Her tongue body was red with no coating and the pulse was slippery and rapid. The practitioner diagnosed this as Kidney and Liver yin deficiency. Because of the severity of her condition, she was given a higher dose of a modified Balance (Heat) formula. The formula contained Balance (Heat) along with 15 grams of Gui Ban (Plastrum Testudinis) and 9 grams of Qing Hao (Herba Artemisiae Annuae). The prescribed dosage was 6 capsules at three times a day. After taking Balance (Heat), the frequency of hot flashes reduced dramatically, from 60 per day to two to three per week! Submitted by K.S., Encinitas, California.

* A 49-year-old female social worker presented with stress, anxiety, dizziness, and irregular menses. The patient reported occasional irritability, hot flashes, night sweats, and painful menses. Dry eyes and muscle cramps were also present. The patient was diagnosed with Kidney and Liver yin deficiency with Liver qi stagnation. With Balance (Heat) and Calm (ES), the patient experienced a reduction of hot flashes and had less irritability, stress, anxiety, and dizziness. She also stated that she slept much better and that her menses were not as painful. The practitioner concluded that the combination of Balance (Heat) and Calm (ES) was quite effective in treating the patient¡¦s condition. Submitted by D.W., Raton, New Mexico.

* M.M., a 41-year-old female, presented with ¡§adrenaline-rush¡¨ sensations, characterized by heat flushes to her face, associated with mood swings and anxiety. Her tongue was red and purple, and her face was red. The Western diagnosis was stress-related anxiety attack; the TCM diagnosis was Liver stagnation and yin deficiency. After beginning herbal therapy with Calm, two capsules three times daily, and Balance (Heat), two capsules three times daily, the patient stated that her affect and personality became calmer. Furthermore, she reported ¡§feeling good,¡¨ with increased energy levels and sound sleep. Submitted by C.L., Chino Hills, California.

* J.D., a 48-year-old post-menopausal female, complained of severe hot flashes. She stated that even during cooler temperatures at night, she needed to cool down by constantly using a hand-held battery-operated fan directed at her face. However, she did not complain of insomnia, mood swings, or palpitations. She confessed that, as a nurse, she was leery of trying herbal treatment. However, she had already tried hormone replacement therapy and OTC supplements with no success, and finally decided to try herbs. Balance (Heat) was prescribed, at three capsules three times daily. During a follow-up visit two weeks later, the patient stated that the hot flashes were completely resolved. Submitted by C.L., Chino Hills, California.

* A 51-year-old female nuclear medicine technician presented with hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia. The practitioner diagnosed her with Kidney yin and Heart yin deficiency with deficiency heat signs. Before the patient¡¦s treatment, she had irregular periods for 1½ years. During treatment, no periods occurred for 6 months. The patient had tried Liu Wei Di Huang Wan (Rehmannia Six Formula) with minimal results. Next, she tried Zhi Bai Di Huang Wan (Anemarrhena Phellodendron and Rehmannia Formula) and the hot flashes were reduced from 10-12 episodes to 4 episodes per day. The practitioner then switched the patient to Balance (Heat) at 6 capsules twice a day. Within 1 week the hot flashes and night sweats were gone. Tian Wang Bu Xin Dan (Emperor of Heaven's Special Pill to Tonify the Heart) was also supplemented, which in turn helped her sleep better. Balance (Heat) proved to be very effective for clearing heat. Submitted by R.M., San Rafael, California.

* A 50-year-old female interior designer presented with peri-menopausal symptoms of hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, and emotional fragility. The patient still had residual hot flashes despite correct dosing with hormone replacement therapy. With this clinical picture, the practitioner diagnosed this case as yin deficiency with deficiency heat. Balance (Heat) was prescribed at 3 capsules in the afternoon and 3 capsules before bedtime. Abatement of all residual heat symptoms occurred within one day. The practitioner found that Balance (Heat) was an excellent addition to the hormone replacement therapy. Submitted by C.W., San Diego, California.

 

PHARMACOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

Balance (Heat) is formulated specifically for female imbalances and disorders such as menopausal syndrome with hot flashes, insomnia, irritability, emotional disturbances, and osteoporosis.

        Balance (Heat) contains Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae), Xiao Mai (Fructus Tritici) and Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae) as three main ingredients in this formula. These three herbs have been used with excellent results to treat a wide variety of conditions, including but not limited to menopause, insomnia, emotional instability, and psychological disorders. According to a clinical study, 133 patients in menopause were treated with these three herbs with good success. The effectiveness rate was 92.7% for insomnia, 84.1% for perspiration, 94.4% for tidal fever, 86.85% for headache, 67.8% for irritability and restlessness, and 70.2% for abdominal fullness.[1] According to another clinical study, use of these herbs in 54 menopause patients was associated with complete relief in 35 cases, improvement in 14 cases, and no effect in 5 cases.[2] Furthermore, 22 of 30 women (73.3%) with menopause experienced significant relief when treated with a formula that contains these three herbs.[3] Other conditions effectively treated by these three herbs include insomnia (74.2% rate of effectiveness),[4] neurasthenia (92% rate of effectiveness,[5] hysteria (88.8% rate of effectiveness),[6] and zang zao (restless organ syndrome) (92.1% rate of effectiveness).[7]

        Balance (Heat) incorporates other herbs to alleviate other conditions associated with menopause. Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae) and Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri) both have sedative effects, and are helpful to reduce spontaneous motor activities,[8] prolong sleeping time and relieve insomnia.[9] Qing Hao (Herba Artemisiae Annuae) and Di Gu Pi (Cortex Lycii) help to regulate body temperature and relieve warm body sensations and fever.[10],[11] Lastly, Zhi Mu (Rhizoma Anemarrhenae) has showed significant antidepressant activity.[12] The proposed mechanism of the antidepressant activity involves a marked increase of noradrenaline and serotonin levels in both the hypothalamus and the hippocampus.[13]

        Finally, since the hormonal changes during menopause increases risks of osteoporosis, herbs are used in Balance (Heat) to counter those risks. Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae), Zhi Mu (Rhizoma Anemarrhenae) and Gan Cao (Radix et Rhizoma Glycyrrhizae) are three herbs that have beneficial effects to regulate the endocrine system to balance the hormones during the menopause transition.[14],[15] Furthermore, Di Huang (Radix Rehmanniae) has an antiosteoporotic effect, as it potently stimulates osteoblast proliferation to increase bone mass density.[16] Zhi Mu (Rhizoma Anemarrhenae) has an osteoprotective effect, as the herb suppresses the descent of bone mineral density, and corrects the decreased concentration of calcium and E(2) in serum without altering the number of osteoclasts. The researchers concluded that Zhi Mu (Rhizoma Anemarrhenae) is effective to prevent bone loss through the promotion of bone formation without the inhibition of bone resorption.[17]

        In summary, Balance (Heat) is an excellent formula to soothe the transition of menopause and associated conditions, such as hot flashes, irritability, insomnia, emotional disturbances, and osteoporosis.

 

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

As life expectancy continues to increase, women are expected to spend more and more of their life in post-menopausal years. Therefore, it is becoming increasingly important to ensure a smooth transition during the menopausal years.

        Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was long considered the standard treatment for menopause and its related conditions. However, there is no longer a consensus as to when and how to use these drugs. While these drugs may alleviate hot flashes, they significantly increase the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and have a number of significant side effects. For most physicians and patients, the risks are simply far greater than the potential benefits. The bottom line is ¡V synthetic hormones can never replace endogenous hormones. Therefore, no matter how or when they are prescribed, the potential for adverse reactions is always present.

        TCM offers a gentle yet effective way to address menopause and its related conditions. Chinese herbs have demonstrated, via numerous in vivo and in vitro studies, marked effects to alleviate hot flashes, vasomotor instability, loss of bone mass, and other conditions associated with menopause. Most importantly, they are much gentler and safer on the body.

        Menopause is simply a transition in the journey of life. It is a not a disease, and therefore, should not be treated with synthetic drugs that pose significantly higher risks of cancer and other side effects. Herbs should be considered the primary option, and not the secondary alternative, as they are safe and natural, and more than sufficient to address almost all cases of menopause.

 



[1] Fu Jian Zhong Yi Yao (Fujian Chinese Medicine and Herbology) 1985;4:34.

[2] Xin Zhong Yi (New Chinese Medicine) 1988;9:51.

[3] Fu Jian Zhong Yi Yao (Fujian Chinese Medicine and Herbology) 1960;10:17.

[4] Zhe Jiang Zhong Yi Za Zhi (Zhejiang Journal of Chinese Medicine) 1982;9:412.

[5] Jiang Su Yi Yao (Jiangsu Journal of Medicine and Herbology) 1976;1:47.

[6] Jiang Su Yi Yao (Jiangsu Journal of Medicine and Herbology) 1978;1:3.

[7] Nan Jing Zhong Yi Yao Da Xue Xue Bao (Journal of Nanjing University of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Medicinals) 1996;6:22.

[8] Guo Wai Yi Xue Zhong Yi Zhong Yao Fen Ce (Monograph of Chinese Herbology from Foreign Medicine), 1985; 7(4):48.

[9] Zhong Yao Yao Li Yu Ying Yong (Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Herbs), 1983; 888.

[10] Zhong Yao Yao Li Yu Ying Yong (Pharmacology and Applications of Chinese Herbs), 1983:59.

[11] Yi Xue Zhong Yang Za Zhi (Central Journal of Medicine), 1967; 223:664.

[12] Ren LX, Luo YF, Li X, Wu YL. Antidepressant activity of sarsasapogenin from Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge (Liliaceae). School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China. Pharmazie. 2007 Jan;62(1):78-9.

[13] Ren LX, Luo YF, Li X, Zuo DY, Wu YL. Antidepressant-like effects of sarsasapogenin from Anemarrhena asphodeloides BUNGE (Liliaceae). School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, China. Biol Pharm Bull. 2006 Nov;29(11):2304-6.

[14] Zhong Yao Xue (Chinese Herbology), 1998; 156:158.

[15] Zhong Hua Yi Xue Za Zhi (Chinese Journal of Medicine), 1975; 10:718.

[16] Yin J, Tezuka Y, Kouda K, Tran QL, Miyahara T, Chen Y, Kadota S. Antiosteoporotic activity of the water extract of Dioscorea spongiosa. Biol Pharm Bull. 2004 Apr;27(4):583-6.

[17] Nian H, et al. Protective effect of steroidal saponins from rhizome of Anemarrhena asphodeloides on ovariectomy-induced bone loss in rats. Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai 200433, China. Acta Pharmacol Sin. 2006 Jun;27(6):728-34.