About Black Cohosh

Black cohosh, which also goes by the names snakeroot and bugwort, is a natural remedy with an age old reputation for treating women's gynecological complaints and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Clinical and anecdotal evidence indicates that black cohosh may be effective for some, but not all, women who suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or symptoms of menopause. At the same time, no human research has been done to confirm its effectiveness in treating arthritis.

Description

Black cohosh is a native North American flowering plant that belongs to the buttercup family. Its lower stems (rhizomes) and roots contain triterpene glycosides, steroids that have a hormone-like effect in the body and that are considered the active ingredients responsible for most of the plant's beneficial effects.

Uses

The dried stems and roots of black cohosh are used to treat both physical and neurological symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats and anxiety.
Although it has a long history of folk use for rheumatism and arthritis inflammation and pain, black cohosh has not been studied enough in humans for researchers to make clear recommendations for its use in these conditions.

Availability

Single herb supplements and combination remedies containing black cohosh are available in the form of pills, capsules, liquid extracts, tinctures and teas. They are available in health food stores and some pharmacies.

Dosage

Unless otherwise prescribed by a doctor or practitioner of Chinese herbal medicine, the standard dose established by the German Commission E is 40 mg daily of dried root and rhizome. Remifem, a popular commercial brand of black cohosh, divides a 40 mg dose into two 20 mg doses, taken twice a day. The liquid extract equivalent of this dose is 40 drops and the equivalent dose of triterpene glycosides (in tablet form) is 2 mg daily. It may take up to four weeks for benefits to be seen.

Effectiveness

Although black cohosh is a best selling natural remedy for PMS and symptoms menopause, both clinical studies and anecdotal reports indicate that it is effective for some women but not for others.
In 2008, a European team of researchers who reviewed the body of clinical studies performed on black cohosh, and published their findings in the journal "Pharmacological Research," concluded that while there is no consistent evidence that it has beneficial effects for all women with perimenopausal and postmenopausal symptoms, it may be helpful to some women and that further clinical study is advisable.

Side Effects

At recommended doses, occasional gastrointestinal discomfort been reported. An overdose of black cohosh may result in more severe stomach upset, dizziness, lowered pulse rate and sweating. Since no long-term toxicity studies of black cohosh have been performed, usage is generally limited to six months.