Many women prefer to try herbal treatments to improve their menopause symptoms instead of taking prescription medications. Herbal products are not regulated in the United States as they are considered a dietary supplement. Some manufacturers employ strict quality control measures but many do not. Quality and strength of herbs may differ from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Overall, there is not enough clinical trial date to support the safety or efficacy for most herbal treatments advertised for relief of menopause-related symptoms. However, many of Dr. Hanna’s patients report relief of symptoms so she is not opposed to patients trying herbal treatments. She does ask that her patients be honest and alert her to what herbal treatments they are taking over-the-counter.