Use of Black Cohosh and Red Clover for the Relief of Menopausal Symptoms

Inclusion Criteria: Menopausal women with intact uterus Must be experiencing hot flashes No menstrual periods for at least 6 months and no longer than 3 years Non-smoker Must have intact uterus (no hysterectomy) Exclusion Criteria: Contraindications for hormone replacement therapy Diabetes mellitus Pregnancy or breast-feeding Obese (BMI >35 excluded) History of endometrial hyperplasia/neoplasia/malignancy History of breast or reproductive cancer History of severe recurrent depression, or severe psychiatric disturbance History of stroke/CVA, severe varicose veins, sickle cell anemia, myocardial infarction (heart attack), or arrhythmia (rhythm disturbance of the heart) History of abnormal vaginal bleeding of unknown cause Untreated or uncontrolled high blood pressure/hypertension Use of any medication or supplement containing estrogen, progestin, SERM, St. John's Wort, bisphosphonates, or phytoestrogens History of hormone-associated migraines History of deep vein thrombosis (blood clots), thrombophlebitis, or thromboembolic disorders Participation in a clinical trial within 30 days Abnormal endometrial biopsy or mammogram Abnormal transvaginal ultrasound defined as >7mm thickness Vegan