Scientists Cite Red Clover as Safe and Effective Treatment of Menopausal Symptoms

Leading international scientists develop treatment algorithm and identify red clover as safe alternative to Hormone Therapy 


STAMFORD, Conn., Aug. 23  /PRNewswire/ -- Two scientific papers have been released that demonstrate both the effectiveness and safety of red clover for the treatment of menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes.

The Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology of Canada published a paper in April, authored by eight internationally renowned women's health experts, which demonstrated that, for many women, along with lifestyle changes, the use of clinically tested over-the-counter natural supplements like red clover, marketed under the brand name Promensil, should be among the first lines of defense in the treatment of the symptoms of menopause. This represents the first time scientists have come to a consensus suggesting dietary supplements as among the first lines of defense in the treatment of the symptoms of menopause.

"Hot flashes are the leading reason menopausal women seek treatment during menopause," said Dr. Lila Nachtigall, MD, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at New York University's School of Medicine, and the lead author of the paper. "In our research, we found a growing trend away from prescription hormone therapy (HT) in women with mild to moderate symptoms and an increasing trend toward lifestyle modifications and complementary therapies." Nachtigall's comments were given at the Association of Women's Organizations in Washington, D.C., this summer.

The study proposes an algorithmic method of treatment, where various treatment options are used over time based on whether a woman is suffering from mild, moderate or severe menopausal symptoms. Treatments start at lifestyle changes, such as exercising, avoiding caffeine and quitting smoking, then escalate to alternative therapy supplements, particularly Promensil because of its safety and effectiveness as shown in numerous clinical trials. HT may be considered in extreme cases.

"The algorithm is a great guide for clinicians because it helps them answer the health questions of today's women," says Dr. Nachtigall. "Women should be involved in deciding which option is best for them and weighing the risks and benefits of each treatment for both the short- and long-term."

While declining levels of estrogen at menopause give rise to the visible acute symptoms, there are also more long-term, or invisible, effects associated with decreases in estrogen that woman need to be aware of, including heart disease, breast cancer and osteoporosis.

According to Nachtigall, "Some women who choose no treatment option at all may be putting their bodies at risk for the negative ancillary effects not only from the stress and anxiety caused by menopause symptoms, but also from long term post-menopausal health issues, including osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease."

In addition to alleviating the symptoms of menopause, studies have found that red clover also has positive effects on invisible symptoms as well. In fact, one such study, published in the March edition of the European menopause journal, Maturitas, showed in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, that not only did red clover not contribute to endometrial thickness-a potential indicator of increased risk to cancer-it was actually instrumental in reducing thickness.

Additional studies have shown the red clover in Promensil to be effective in promoting cardiovascular health (lowering bad cholesterol levels and improving arterial compliance), reducing breast tissue density (another possible indicator of increased risk to cancer), and also in reducing the rate of bone loss. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, one in two women age 50 will have an osteoporosis-related fracture in her remaining lifetime, with a two- to- four-percent bone loss each year. For women nearing or experiencing menopause, what they take for visible symptoms may just have a positive effect on the invisible ones and their overall health.

For more information on treating both the visible and invisible symptoms of menopause, visit http://www.promensil.com/ and talk to your healthcare professional.

Novogen, Ltd., is the world leader in research and development of isoflavones for human health. Isoflavones derived from the red clover plant, marketed under the brand name Promensil, have been clinically proven safe and effective in treating the symptoms of menopause and improving heart, breast and bone health. Novogen also manufactures Promensil Post Menopause for women's post menopausal health. 

DATASOURCE: Novogen, Inc.



CONTACT:  Paul O'Rourke, , or Brooke Werner,

, of Pipitone Group, [phone]



Web site:  http://www.promensil.com/

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