Menopause typically begins between ages 45 and 55 and is considered “complete” after 12 months without a period. While menopause itself is a transition, its symptoms can last for years, and the physical changes go far beyond hot flushes. Many women also experience fatigue, brain fog, joint pain, and increased inflammation. But natural support options, including herbs and supplements, can make a difference.
In this blog, we break down the menopause timeline, the impact of inflammation, and how to support your body naturally through the transition and beyond.
What Is Menopause, Exactly?
Menopause is defined as the point in time when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. It marks the end of natural fertility and is caused by a decline in the ovarian production of oestrogen and progesterone. The years leading up to this point (known as perimenopause) are often when symptoms begin.
Postmenopause refers to the years following menopause, when hormone levels remain consistently low. Symptoms can ease for some, but others may continue to experience ongoing challenges such as sleep disruption, low energy, and inflammation-related discomfort.
When Does Menopause Usually Start?
The average age of menopause in the UK is around 51, although it can happen earlier or later. According to the NHS, most women reach menopause between ages 45 and 55[1]. Perimenopause often begins several years earlier, typically in the early 40s, and can last 4–8 years.
When Does Menopause End?
Technically, menopause is a one-day event. It's the day that marks 12 months since your last period. However, the term is commonly used to describe the transition and its associated symptoms. Many women ask when it “ends” because symptoms can persist for years. Research shows that menopausal symptoms last an average of 7 years, with some women experiencing them for over a decade[2].
Why Is Inflammation a Concern in Menopause?
After menopause, the natural decline in oestrogen can lead to an increase in low-grade, chronic inflammation. This is known as inflammaging—a term used to describe the gradual rise in inflammatory markers associated with ageing[3].
Oestrogen normally helps regulate the immune system and keeps inflammation in check. When levels drop, women may experience:
- Joint stiffness and pain
- Increased fatigue
- Worsening of autoimmune symptoms
- Brain fog or cognitive slowing
Supporting the body’s natural anti-inflammatory processes during this time can help ease discomfort and improve overall wellbeing.
How Can You Support Your Body Naturally During Menopause?
Napiers herbalists often take a whole-person approach to menopause, supporting not only hormones, but also sleep, mood, energy and inflammatory balance. We recommend booking a free 15 minute 1:1 consultation with a herbalist to discuss your unique menopause for tailored support.
Here are a few natural options commonly used by women going through the transition:
Napiers Midlife Mix
Napiers Midlife Mix is a traditional liquid herbal blend formulated to support women during hormonal transitions. It contains sage, red clover, black cohosh, St John’s wort, and cleavers: botanical ingredients traditionally used to support temperature regulation, mood, and general wellbeing in midlife. These herbs are traditionally used to support temperature regulation, mood balance, and general wellbeing during the menopause transition.
It is taken as a liquid tonic and can be used as part of a daily routine to gently support the body’s natural balance during this stage of life.
Note: St John’s wort may interact with certain medications including antidepressants, contraceptives, and blood thinners. Please consult a healthcare professional before use if you are taking any medication or undergoing treatment.
Napiers Wild Yam Cream
Wild yam has been used for centuries in herbal traditions to support hormone balance. Napiers Wild Yam Cream delivers a gentle botanical extract through the skin and may be used as part of a daily menopause support routine.
Napiers Sea Pure Magnesium Supplement
Magnesium is one of the most important minerals during menopause. It contributes to normal muscle function, psychological function, and helps reduce tiredness and fatigue[4]. Napiers Sea Pure Magnesium is a bioavailable form of magnesium derived from seawater, ideal for supporting sleep, mood, and muscle tension.
Napiers Japanese Energy CoQ10
CoQ10 plays a key role in energy production and cellular antioxidant defence. As natural levels decline with age, many women supplement with CoQ10 to support vitality, brain function and cardiovascular health—especially in the postmenopausal years. Japanese Energy CoQ10 contains Kaneka Ubiquinol, the bioavailable form used in clinical studies.
While menopause is a natural life transition, it doesn't have to be one you navigate alone, or without support. Understanding the timing and impact of menopause can help you take proactive steps to care for your body and wellbeing. From inflammation to energy and hormone balance, the right herbs and nutrients can help ease the journey and support you through every stage.
FAQs: Menopause, Inflammation, and Natural Support
When do women typically go through menopause?
Most women reach menopause between ages 45 and 55. The average age in the UK is 51.
What age does menopause end?
Menopause is technically complete after 12 months without a period. However, symptoms can last for years afterwards, on average, around 7 years.
What is inflammation detox in menopause?
While the term “inflammation detox” isn’t medically defined, it is often used to describe approaches aimed at supporting the body’s natural balance during hormonal change, such as through herbs, diet, or lifestyle.
Can herbs really help with menopause symptoms?
Yes. Herbs like black cohosh, sage, and wild yam have been traditionally used to support hormonal balance, ease hot flushes and reduce irritability.
Is CoQ10 good for menopause?
CoQ10 supports energy metabolism and cellular antioxidant defence. It may be particularly helpful post-menopause when natural CoQ10 levels decline.
Why is magnesium important during menopause?
Magnesium supports normal psychological function, muscle health, and energy metabolism. It may help with sleep, tension, and fatigue during hormonal transitions.
References
- NHS. (2023). Menopause. NHS.
- K Peacock, K Carlson, K M. Ketvertis. (2023). Menopause. NCBI.
- Franceschi, C., et al. (2000). Inflamm-aging. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 908(1), 244–254. PubMed
- A C Remondi Souza, A Rodrigues Vasconcelos, D Deo Dias, G Komoni, J João Name. (2023). The Integral Role of Magnesium in Muscle Integrity and Aging: A Comprehensive Review. PubMed.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially during a hormonal transition like menopause.
