According to experts, about 70 percent of women experience hot flashes, weight gain, loss of libido and other symptoms as they enter menopause and their hormone levels fluctuate sharply.

Gynecologists estimate that a third of women seeking treatment for menopausal symptoms are on conventional prescription hormones. Another third are on prescription bio-identical therapy. The remaining third either tough it out or are searching for other remedies, including natural supplements. They may try, for example, a supplement of phytoestrogens derived from soy and red clover, or black cohosh capsules.

In 2002, a study suggested that women on conventional hormone therapy were at greater risk for heart disease, cancer, stroke and blood clotting. As a result, the market for alternative treatments has soared, and there are now more than 500 products that aim to relieve symptoms associated with menopause, including capsules, tablets, teas, gels and creams.