Not everyone wants hormones for hot flashes. If you are new to all of this, the first question is simple: what else is there?
The nonhormonal options, in plain words
A menopause page at my.clevelandclinic.org answers this directly. Some nonhormonal treatments that a provider may recommend include changing what you eat, avoiding triggers to hot flashes, getting regular physical activity or exercise, joining support groups, nonhormonal prescription medications, cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy.
Which items are cheap and simple
The lowest-effort items on that list are changing what you eat, getting regular activity and joining a support group. Prescription medication, cognitive behavioral therapy and hypnotherapy are not do-it-yourself steps, so they belong in a conversation with a clinician.
For background reading, see Cleveland Clinic's menopause overview, the Menopause basics page from the Office on Women's Health, the NHS page on treatment for menopause and perimenopause and Monash Lens on common menopause symptoms and what therapy can treat.
Take your list to a clinician
Choosing among these is a conversation, not a guess. Tell a licensed clinician which options appeal to you and which you have already tried. Asking is the right first step.