The Effect of Salvia Officinalis on Hot Flashes in Postmenopausal Women Original paper
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
I am a biochemist with a deep curiosity for the human microbiome and how it shapes human health, and I enjoy making microbiome science more accessible through research and writing. With 2 years experience in microbiome research, I have curated microbiome studies, analyzed microbial signatures, and now focus on interventions as a Microbiome Signatures and Interventions Research Coordinator.
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Women’s Health
Women’s Health
Women’s health, a vital aspect of medical science, encompasses various conditions unique to women’s physiological makeup. Historically, women were often excluded from clinical research, leading to a gap in understanding the intricacies of women’s health needs. However, recent advancements have highlighted the significant role that the microbiome plays in these conditions, offering new insights and potential therapies. MicrobiomeSignatures.com is at the forefront of exploring the microbiome signature of each of these conditions to unravel the etiology of these diseases and develop targeted microbiome therapies.
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Menopausal Hot Flashes
Menopausal Hot Flashes
Menopausal hot flashes are one of the most common and disruptive symptoms that women experience during the transition to menopause. Characterized by sudden sensations of heat, sweating, and flushing, hot flashes can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life, causing sleep disturbances, mood swings, and even long-term health consequences. Understanding the complex mechanisms behind hot flashes, as well as the role of microbiome-targeted therapies, offers new avenues for improving menopausal health.
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Divine Aleru
Researched by:
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Divine Aleru
ID
Divine Aleru
Microbiome Signatures identifies and validates condition-specific microbiome shifts and interventions to accelerate clinical translation. Our multidisciplinary team supports clinicians, researchers, and innovators in turning microbiome science into actionable medicine.
Divine Aleru
What was studied?
This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the effect of Salvia officinalis (sage) on hot flashes in postmenopausal women. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of Salvia officinalis on the frequency, severity, and duration of hot flashes by analyzing four randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The data was pooled to assess the overall efficacy of this herbal remedy compared to a placebo. The researchers included studies published between 1990 and 2023, utilizing multiple databases to ensure comprehensive results.
Who was studied?
The study involved 310 postmenopausal women, aged 45 to 65, who were experiencing moderate to severe hot flashes. Participants had been postmenopausal for at least 12 months and reported at least three hot flashes per day. The trials included in the meta-analysis utilized different doses of Salvia officinalis extract, ranging from 100 mg to 280 mg daily. Participants were randomly assigned to either the intervention group (Salvia officinalis) or a placebo group, with some studies using a double-blind or triple-blind methodology to minimize bias.
Most important findings
The meta-analysis revealed that Salvia officinalis significantly reduced the frequency of hot flashes, with an effect size of −1.12, indicating a moderate to large reduction. However, it had no significant effect on the severity of hot flashes, with an effect size of −2.05, which was not statistically significant. Only one study examined the effect on the duration of hot flashes, but the data was insufficient to make conclusive findings. Overall, Salvia officinalis was found to be more effective than placebo in reducing hot flash frequency, but its impact on severity and duration was less clear.
Key implications
The findings suggest that Salvia officinalis may offer a non-hormonal, herbal alternative for managing hot flashes in postmenopausal women, particularly for those who cannot or prefer not to use hormone replacement therapy. While its effect on the severity and duration of hot flashes requires further investigation, the significant reduction in frequency supports its potential as a treatment option. Healthcare providers may consider recommending Salvia officinalis as a natural remedy, though more extensive studies are needed to solidify these findings and assess long-term safety and efficacy.
Menopausal Hot Flashes
Menopausal hot flashes are one of the most common and disruptive symptoms that women experience during the transition to menopause. Characterized by sudden sensations of heat, sweating, and flushing, hot flashes can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life, causing sleep disturbances, mood swings, and even long-term health consequences. Understanding the complex mechanisms behind hot flashes, as well as the role of microbiome-targeted therapies, offers new avenues for improving menopausal health.