The root and rhizome, or underground stem of black cohosh, is an herbal remedy mainly for women. This flowering plant in the buttercup family is native to eastern woodlands of North America, and has the Latin botanical names Actaea racemosa and Cimicifuga racemosa. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends taking herbal remedies only with the supervision of a health care provider.
Reproductive System Benefits
Commission E, the German agency that regulates herbs, has approved black cohosh for relieving premenstrual discomfort, painful menstruation and disagreeable symptoms of menopause. These have been common uses of the herb for European women for more than 40 years. Research results are mixed, according to the UMMC. While many studies indicate that black cohosh improves menopausal symptoms of hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness, other research has found no benefits.
Other Potential Uses
Native Americans treated rheumatism with black cohosh, and preliminary research suggests that the herb may decrease inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, according to the UMMC. Laboratory studies indicate that certain components of black cohosh may prevent bone loss due to osteoporosis, as noted by the UMMC.
How It Works
Black cohosh contains isoferulic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties, and triterpene glycosides, including 27-deoxyactein, considered responsible for some beneficial effects of this herb. Black cohosh also contains phytoestrogens, or plant-based estrogens, which may be partly responsible for the benefits of bone density retention and the relief of symptoms associated with menstruation and menopause. This theory is disputed, however, according to the American Cancer Society, explaining that black cohosh processes in the body are not well understood. A laboratory study has indicated that black cohosh extract does not bind to estrogen receptors, according to the People's Pharmacy.
Types
Black cohosh is available in liquid tincture and extract, dried extract in tablets and capsules, and dried root for tea. The UMMC recommends using a dried extract standardized for 1 mg of 27-deoxyactein for menopausal symptoms, at two capsules or tablets per day. You also can take 2 ml to 4 ml of tincture three times per day. Black cohosh tea may not be as effective for relieving menopausal symptoms. The People's Pharmacy notes that you may not obtain maximum benefits for up to four weeks. Long-term research on effects and safety is lacking, so don't take black cohosh for longer than six months.
Caution
Although black cohosh may be useful for treating menstrual and menopausal symptoms, women who have or are at increased risk of other hormone-related conditions should not take this herbal remedy without discussing it with a health care provider, advises the UMMC. Some of these conditions include breast and ovarian cancer, endometriosis and fibroid tumors. Pregnant women should not take this supplement as it may stimulate contractions and result in premature labor.
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