Why I use Sarsaparilla Tea for Menopause

Greetings,

Menopause is a natural phase / cycle in a woman's life, marking the end of reproductive years. In preparing for menopause I did the research and wanted to reduced the range of symptoms that can impact daily life, from hot flashes and mood swings to sleep disturbances and so many more. I decided that I wanted to take control of my health, leading me to stop eating meat and chicken. Whilst  there are various treatments available, I have been seeking natural alternatives to alleviate these symptoms. One such remedy gaining attention is sarsaparilla tea. In this blog, I delve into the potential benefits of sarsaparilla tea for menopause and how it can support women during this transformative stage.

What is Sarsaparilla?

Sarsaparilla (Smilax spp.) is a perennial vine native to Central and South America, as well as parts of Asia. Traditionally, its root has been used for its medicinal properties, including its ability to support hormonal balance and overall health. Sarsaparilla contains various bioactive compounds, including saponins, flavonoids, and plant sterols, which contribute to its therapeutic effects.

Benefits of Sarsaparilla Tea for Menopause

1. Hormonal Balance and Relief from Symptoms

• Phytoestrogenic Properties: Sarsaparilla contains phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen in the body. During menopause, when estrogen levels decline, phytoestrogens can help alleviate symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
• Regulates Hormones: By supporting hormonal balance, sarsaparilla tea may help reduce the intensity and frequency of menopausal symptoms, promoting overall well-being.

2. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects

• Reduces Inflammation: Sarsaparilla has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate inflammation-related symptoms commonly experienced during menopause, such as joint pain and swelling.
• Antioxidant Protection: The antioxidants in sarsaparilla tea help combat oxidative stress, which increases during menopause and can contribute to aging and chronic diseases.

3. Supports Skin Health

• Clearer Complexion: Some women find that sarsaparilla tea improves their skin's appearance by reducing acne and promoting a clearer complexion, which can be affected by hormonal changes during menopause.

4. Digestive Support

• Gut Health: Sarsaparilla has traditionally been used to support digestive health, easing symptoms like bloating and indigestion that can occur during menopause due to hormonal fluctuations.

How to Prepare Sarsaparilla Tea

Making sarsaparilla tea at home is straightforward:

• Ingredients: 1 teaspoon of dried sarsaparilla root per cup of water.
• Instructions:
  1. Boil water in a saucepan.
  2. Add the dried sarsaparilla root to the boiling water.
  3. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
  4. Strain the tea into a cup and enjoy. You can add honey or lemon to taste, if desired.
  5. I actually add a likkle piece of a cinnamon stick to the tea.

Safety Considerations

While sarsaparilla tea is generally considered safe for most people, it's essential to be mindful of the following:

• Consultation with Healthcare Provider: If you have any existing health conditions or are taking medications, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT), consult with your healthcare provider before using sarsaparilla tea.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Avoid sarsaparilla tea during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as its effects during these periods are not well-studied.
• Quality and Dosage: Use high-quality sarsaparilla root and follow recommended dosage guidelines to avoid potential side effects.

Summary

Sarsaparilla tea offers a natural approach to managing menopausal symptoms, providing relief through its hormone-balancing properties and anti-inflammatory effects. By incorporating sarsaparilla tea into your daily routine, alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise, you can support your journey through menopause with greater comfort and well-being.

I absolutely love drinking loose tea, this book "20,000 Secrets of Tea: The Most Effective Ways to Benefit from Nature's Healing Herbs" by Victoria Zak explores a wide variety of herbs and their uses.  I usually refer to this book when I am vending, offering an alternative way to look after your health. This book gives an insight into the medicinal benefits of tea. It covers the history of tea, the preparation methods, and the health benefits of different herbal teas for various ailments, to improve overall health and well-being. This book serves as a valuable resource for me and anyone interested in natural remedies and the therapeutic power of tea.

Always listen to your body's needs and seek guidance from healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about your health during this transformative phase of life. 

Wholeness, love and light 💚