But first, a note on how Ayurveda thinks about Menopause.
Menopause has been framed as a loss in our culture—loss of youth, fertility, vitality. And because of that, so many women brace themselves for the worst: hot flashes, mood swings, night sweats, exhaustion, anxiety, and changes that feel out of their control.
But Ayurveda offers a more empowering perspective.
In Ayurvedic wisdom, menopause is a powerful transition into the vata stage of life, a time of wisdom, reflection, and respect. Instead of just managing symptoms, Ayurveda helps you embrace this transition by working with your body’s natural rhythms, starting with what you eat.
Calcium
Calcium prevents osteoporosis and bone problems. Calcium is also crucial for relief of hot flashes.
Food Sources:
- Dark leafy greens
- Mung beans
- Homemade yogurt
- Almonds
- Lassi/takra
- Sesame seeds
- Flaxseeds
- Chia seeds
- Fenugreek
- Lentils
- Amaranth
- Moringa
- Ghee
- Raw Milk
Vitamin D
Essential for calcium absorption, bone health, and mood support.
Sources:
- Early morning sunlight
- Sprouted nuts and seeds
- Plant-based milks
- Ghee
- Abhyanga before sunlight to increase Vitamin D exposure
- Liver supporting protocols to increase absorption
Vitamin E
This is excellent for the reproductive system and specific for hot flashes, muscle cramps, and vaginal dryness.
Sources:
- Sprouted and well spiced whole grains
- Avocado
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Chia seeds
- Sesame seeds
- Almonds
- Ghee
Medicated Ghee
Medicated Ghees are often used in Ayurveda to help nourish, protect, and provide lubrication to dry tissues. Dried tissues are a common sign of menopause. Medicated ghees can be taken internally or externally. Menopause is a vata and pitta time of life and medicated ghee (ghrita) is an excellent way to nourish your tissues (rasa dhatu, majja dhatu, shukra dhatu); promote bone health, strength, and vitality; balance nervous system; and improve memory and vaginal dryness.
