I am 39 years old and have a five-and-a-half-year-old girl. I am constantly trying to lose weight and at the same time have energy. I would like to lose 20 pounds for health reasons. I have menstrual cramps even though I have not had my period in over two weeks. I am getting hot flashes and sweating and I'm always tired. I was told to take blue cohash, burdock group and sea kelp. Are these good for someone like me?

--Vilase

First of all, have you seen a doctor to rule out medical conditions like thyroid disease that may be causing your symptoms? That should always be the first step. Second, examine your lifestyle for clues to your symptoms -- you have a five-year-old, which is probably a lot of work. If you also work outside the home, that means you really have two full-time jobs (three if you also have to do all the housework, grocery shopping, etc.). That's reason enough for a little fatigue! If your diet is fast food and not well-rounded with fruits, vegetables, grains and some quality protein, then that can also leave you feeling sluggish.

Herbs can be helpful for many conditions, but I feel strongly that they should not be used without supervision of a doctor, acupuncturist or herbalist -- someone well trained in their proper use. Herbs are not automatically safe just because they are "natural" (arsenic, after all, is also natural!), and they can easily be misused and cause harm if taken in excessive amounts. Blue cohash is a uterine stimulant and can be used to regulate menstrual cycles; if taken in early pregnancy, however, it may induce abortion. Burdock is supposed to be a nourishing and rejuvenative; it is also reputed to be able to cool heat -- whether from fever or anger. Kelp -- seaweed -- is basically a vegetable and as such is a great source of some vitamins and minerals, including carotenoids and calcium. If you like the taste of seaweed, it won't hurt you.