Herbal medicine and menopause: A historical perspective

Scientific and consumer interest is growing in the role of phytotherapy in the treatment of menopause related complaints. To date much of the scientific research in this context has focused on the phytoestrogen containing plants, with other herbs traditionally used for menopausal symptoms receiving relatively little attention. Current phytotherapeutic practice thus largely derives its evidence from traditional use. The current paper explores the origins of the recognition of menopause as a syndrome, historical perspectives on menopause with associated treatment aims and treatments, including hormone therapy and plant derived therapies, from the time of Aristotle to the present day.