Native Americans first discovered black cohosh, and used the root of the perennial plant to relieve menstrual cramps, hot flashes, irritability, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Today it is commonly used and sold as an herb in the United States and Europe to treat the same symptoms. Other common names for black cohosh are black snakeroot, bugbane, bugwort, rattleroot, rattletop, rattleweed, and macrotys.
Menopause
In a clinical study listed by the University of Maryland Medical center, 120 women with menopausal symptoms found that black cohosh was more effective in relieving hot flashes and night sweats than the antidepressant Prozac. In addition, the North American Menopause Society recommends considering black cohosh as one of the nonprescription remedies for mild menopausal symptoms. The safety of this herb for women remains uncertain and it is recommended to discuss supplementation with your family doctor.
Aids With Breast Cancer Treatment
Breast cancer patients are often prescribed the medication tamoxifen. A study listed by the American Cancer Society revealed that women with breast cancer and being treated with tamoxifen found that side effects of the medication, including headaches, fatigue, nausea, vomiting and hot flashes, were less severe and occurred less often when they added black cohosh to their daily regimens. More research is still needed to determine the use of black cohosh and cancer patients. Women with a history or risk factors of breast cancer, or involved with breast cancer treatment should talk to their doctor before taking black cohosh.
Reduce Inflammation
The University of Maryland Medical Center states that preliminary studies suggested that black cohosh may help reduce inflammation. Inflammation is often associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. More research is still needed, and arthritis patients are encouraged to speak with their medical doctors before taking black cohosh.
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