A proprietary product called Nutrafem is a combination of botanical extracts 
derived from Vigna radiate (mung beans) and Eucommia ulmoides bark. This phase II, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, multicenter clinical study was conducted in 159 postmenopausal women who had at least 21 hot flashes per week. 131 women completed the study. One group received the product containing 75 mg of E. ulmoides plant extract and 150 mg of V. radiate plant and was given 2 capsules morning and night for 12 weeks, the other placebo.
Results: The botanical combination reduced the number of vasomotor symptoms by 46% from baseline compared with 26% in the placebo group. Forty-three percent of women taking the botanical had at least a 50% reduction in the number of symptoms compared with only 6% in the placebo group.
Commentary: New options in botanical interventions for menopause related hot flashes are always welcomed. Mung beans are familiar to many, as a dietary source of nutrients-whether in sprouted form or other use. It is typically consumed for its protein and essential fatty acid content. E. ulmoides is rich in polyphenolic compounds such as lignans and flavonoids. I look forward to continued research on botanical therapies for menopause symptoms and the ability to expand our treatment options.
References:
Garcia J, Gonzaga F, Tan D, et al. Use of a multi-botanical (Nutrafem) for the relief of menopausal vasomotor symptoms: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Menopause 2010; 17(2):303-308.
