Black cohosh, with the botanical names Cimicifuga racemosa and Actaea racemosa, is a flowering plant also known as bugbane. Women use the roots and rhizomes of black cohosh to treat premenstrual discomfort, painful or irregular menstruation, and unpleasant symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes. Black cohosh also may decrease inflammation caused by osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Side effects are primarily associated with high doses, but some risks call for caution when considering this herbal remedy.
Liver Toxicity
Black cohosh supplements in the United States, Australia, Canada and the United Kingdom carry statements about liver toxicity associated with this herb. The U.S. Pharmacopeia (an organization that sets standards for foods, supplements and drugs) in 2008 recommended this labeling change after analyzing 30 reports on liver damage occurring after black cohosh use. The agency notes that all reports were categorized as "possible causality" rather than probable or certain causality. Signs of liver damage include jaundice, dark urine or high liver enzymes shown on a blood test. People with liver problems, who drink large amounts of alcohol, or who take medications that have negative effects on the liver should not use black cohosh.
Most Frequent Side Effects
Many side effects are associated with black cohosh, but are not common and typically only occur with high doses. As listed by the UMMC and eMedTV, gastrointestinal effects include abdominal pain, upset stomach, diarrhea and nausea. Other side effects may include breast tenderness, changes in vision, dizziness, headaches, joint pain, legs feeling heavy, slowed heart rate, tremors and weight gain.
Allergic Reaction
Rarely, some people may experience an allergic reaction to black cohosh. This is most likely in individuals allergic to other plants in the buttercup family or to salicylates such as aspirin, as the herb contains small amounts of this chemical, as noted by Drugs.com. Signs of an allergic reaction include a rash, hives, itching, mouth or throat swelling, and wheezing or difficulty breathing. An allergic reaction to black cohosh should be considered a medical emergency.
Hormonal Effects
Black cohosh may have estrogen-like qualities and could stimulate certain types of cancers, particularly hormonal cancers such as breast, cervical, ovarian and prostate. EMedTV explains that laboratory research results are mixed in regard to the effects of black cohosh on cancer cells. People with cancer or at increased risk of developing cancer should not take black cohosh without consulting their health care provider, and should not take the herb for lengthy time frames. Black cohosh studies have only looked at effects of the herb for six months or less.
Blood Clotting
Black cohosh may increase the risk of blood clots, especially in people with a clotting disorder. EMedTV recommends that anyone with a clotting disorder or at elevated risk of blood clots check with a health care provider before taking black cohosh.
Member Comments