Actaea racemosa, also known as Cimicifuga racemosa and having the common name black cohosh, is a flowering wild plant and a member of the buttercup family. Black cohosh root has been used traditionally to treat unpleasant symptoms of menopause, and some research supports its effectiveness, according to the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH). You can grow black cohosh at home, or buy the dried root at natural food stores. Black cohosh supplements also are available in the form of capsules, tablets, tincture and standardized extract.
Menopausal Symptoms
Black cohosh is a prescription treatment in Germany as an alternative to hormone therapy for symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and insomnia. It proves beneficial for women going through menopause due to age and for those having undergone a hysterectomy. Black cohosh as an over-the-counter supplement is popular in the United States for this purpose as well, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). The NIH notes that study results are conflicting; most studies did not include a placebo group, and studies were short in duration (six months or less). Nevertheless, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists stated in 2001 that black cohosh may be helpful for vasomotor symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes, at least in the short term.
Menstrual Problems
Germany has also approved black cohosh as a prescription medication for relieving symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and menstrual cramps. The UMMC notes that Native Americans began using black cohosh for this purpose over two centuries ago.
Bone Density
Laboratory and animal studies indicate that plant-based estrogens (phytoestrogens) found in black cohosh may prevent bone loss (osteoporosis). A study published in the November 2005 issue of the "Journal of Bone and Mineral Research," for instance, notes that rats provided with black cohosh extract experienced positive skeletal effects.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Black cohosh also contains isoferulic acids, substances with anti-inflammatory properties, according to the UMMC. The herb may decrease inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
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