Impact of supplementation of drumstick (Moringa oleifera) and amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor) leaves powder on menopausal symptoms of postmenopausal women

Physiological and psychological changes occurring during the menopause influence both symptomatology and sexuality. Drumstick (Moringa oleifera) and amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor) leafy vegetables which are rich in micronutrients are helpful. So, the study was designed to see the effect of supplementation of dried drumstick and amaranth leaves powder on menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women. Ninety postmenopausal women aged 45-60 years were selected and divided into three groups viz. Group I, II and III having thirty subjects in each group. The subjects of group II and III were supplemented daily with 7g drumstick leaves powder (DLP) and 9g amaranth leaves powder (ALP), respectively for a period of three months in their diet. The subjects of group I was not given supplementation. Information regarding menopause were collected. Menopause Rating Scale was used for various assessment and observation of postmenopausal symptoms among subjects. The mean standard error, analysis of variance and their statistical significance was ascertained using a computer programme package. The data revealed that 100, 83.3 and 70.0 per cent subjects in group I (control), group II (DLP supplementation) and group III (ALP supplementation) had gradual cessation of periods, whereas 16.7 and 30.0 per cent of subjects had experienced abrupt cessation of periods in group II and group III respectively. Irregularity of periods (2-3 months) was observed in gradual cessation of periods. Supplementation of DLP and ALP significantly decreased the severity of postmenopausal symptoms with decrease in total menopause rating score by 17.0 and 11.7 per cent in group II and III respectively. The results indicated that these plants possess antioxidant property and have therapeutic potential for the prevention of complications during postmenopause.