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The latest research has enabled us to verify that at least 350 plants contain precursors of phytoestrogens. While these substances resemble animal hormones, they have no specific hormonal action and may have an important preventive and therapeutic role for humans.
As in the case of many phytotherapeutic remedies, the initial interest came about from the observation that Oriental women (whose diet is rich in soy) experienced a postmenopausal hormonal situation that was different from that of Western women.
Some of the differences that were revealed were, for example, in the incidence of breast cancer and, most of all, the distinct reduction of recurring tumors in those who made constant use of phytoestrogens.
The plants that contain the highest quantity of this substance are legumes, among which Soy is by far the richest in phytoestrogens. Along with Soy, however, other plants such as Red Clover, Black Cohosh (Actea racemosa) and Sage (Salvia officinalis), may be used to treat many feminine conditions and their use is particularly concerned with the period of menopause.
In August of 2006, the Italian Ministry of Health imposed the recall of all medicines or dietary supplements containing even small quantities of Black Cohosh. This came about as a result of amuch disputed report by the EMEA (European Medicines Evaluation Agency), an organization that in 2000 received 70% of its financing from pharmaceutical companies and only 30% from the European Economic Community. This recall was revoked in February of 2007. Therefore, this maneuver was simply an obstacle to one’s freedom to choose therapy.
Eurosalus expressed its anger and regret over this act geared towards protecting individual interests and clearly not the public health. The fact remains that in Europe, only Italy and Finland (where the supplement was re-classified as a “medicine”) enforced the recall of the substance while other countries did not. In February of 2007, the Istituto Superiore di Sanità (Italian Health Institute) ruled that the plant was not toxic for the liver thereby clearing Black Cohosh of any charges.
There are many preparations available that contain Phytoestrogens and are produced by companies in various doses and most of all according to various philosophies.
Suggested products
For the treatment of the menopause syndrome, Eurosalus medical staff recommends Genirose Plus tablets (produced by Solgar) which combine 72 mg of soy isoflavones with the antioxidant force of Vitamin E.
Another product that has a strong impact on hot flashes is Genigreen Plus (also by Solgar) which contains Black Cohosh. This preparation will be on the market again soon, after the above-mentioned legislative turbulence of 2006. An important characteristic of Solgar soy preparations is that they contain no OGM Soy .
Another effective product is Neodonna Isoflavoni tablets (made by Biosline), which combines 75 mg of soy isoflavones with Red Clover and Black Cohosh (substances containing isoflavones with different functions). The presence of small amounts of Vitamin B, Vitamin D, Passion Flower, Calcium and magnesium in properly balanced quantities helps to create a more balanced control of the climacteric and the syndrome associated with menopause.
Along with this product, the manufacturer also offers Neodonna Isoflavoni Gel intimo (vaginal gel) whose content is similar but intended for external use. This gel is recommended in cases of vaginal dryness and for maintaining a proper balance in the mucosa and the tissues that are sensitive to hormones.
Dosage
The instructions for use are mostly intended for the treatment of the premenstrual syndrome and hot flashes due to menopause. During menopause the suggested dosage is 1 or 2 tablets per day (Genirose Plus, Genigreen, or Neodonna Isoflavoni). This treatment may be extended for long periods of time.
Duration
In the presence of hot flashes due to menopause, the period of use may even be extended to a year and possibly repeated if necessary. Some doctors recommend a continuous use of the product.
Dr Attilio Speciani MD
Clinical Allergist and Immunologist
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