Black cohosh root is most commonly used to alleviate the symptoms of menopause and menstruation. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A Balch, C.N.C., it can also be used for snake bites and to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Black cohosh does have some potential side effects. Health-Care-Information.org states that high doses of more than 2 teaspoons of liquid extract or 1 teaspoon of the root can be hazardous.
Digestive Upset
According to "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies" by pharmacologist Joe Graedon and Teresa Gradedon, Ph.D., consumption of black cohosh may cause various signs of digestive upset such as stomach pain, nausea and vomiting. Taking high doses of the herb increases the risk of these side effects. If you encounter any of these digestive disturbances while taking black cohosh, discontinue use immediately and contact your doctor.
Visual Disturbances
Dizziness and visual disturbances are other possible side effects, according to Health-Care-Information.org. Consuming more than 1 teaspoon of the root, three capsules in an hour or 2 teaspoons of the liquid extract in one dose can result in the onset of visual disturbances. If you experience these side effects while taking black cohosh, seek medical attention and discontinue use of the herb.
Lowered Pulse and Blood Pressure
Lowered pulse and blood pressure are another of the possible side effects noted by "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies." "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" states that one of the uses of black cohosh is to lower high blood pressure. If high doses of the herb are taken, however, it can result in dangerously lowered blood pressure. For this reason, it is important to consult with a medical professional before beginning use of the herb.
Increased Perspiration
"The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies" lists increased perspiration as another possible side effect that can result from the use of black cohosh. If increased perspiration is observed while consuming black cohosh, discontinue use immediately and contact your doctor.
Headaches
Headaches are listed as a side effect of black cohosh, according to "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies." If you begin experiencing headaches while consuming the herb, use should be discontinued immediately and a doctor should be consulted.
References
- Health-Care-Information: Black Cohosh
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D.; 1997
- "The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies"; Joe Graedon; 2001
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