PMS, or premenstrual syndrome, affects about three in every four women, according to the Mayo Clinic. PMS often interferes with the daily lives of these women, causing emotional and physical symptoms such as moodiness, tiredness and depression. Some alternative medical methods are thought to relieve some PMS symptoms, including use of the herb black cohosh.
Identification
Black cohosh is a plant sometimes called "black snakeroot," "squaw root," or "bugbane." Generally, the root of the plant is the part used medicinally. The black cohosh plant is a high-growing plant with white flowers, and the root is very dark with knots. Black cohosh originated in North America and was used by Native Americans as medicine.
Benefits
Anne McIntyre, in "The Complete Woman's Herbal," says that a main benefit of black cohosh is its ability to relieve pain. She explains that this plant alleviates PMS symptoms such as cramps, headaches and other body pain. Another property of this plant is its estrogen-like quality. McIntyre says this herb could help if a woman has low levels of estrogen. Black cohosh can also ward off stress, which can aggravate or cause PMS symptoms. This plant has been used to help menstruation begin if it is slow in coming.
Function
Black cohosh works in the body in many ways. Its antispasmodic qualities are what relieve cramps and muscle pain. Black cohosh's salicylates reduce inflammation, and its sedative quality is the property that alleviates headaches, according to McIntyre. Its estrogen-like properties also alleviate certain PMS symptoms, although the Mayo Clinic says some studies are uncertain as to this benefit. Black cohosh is also a uterine tonic, which is the reason it alleviates symptoms such as a slow start to the period and pain.
Preparation
Victoria Zak, in "20,000 Secrets of Tea," suggests drinking black cohosh in tea form. She generally recommends having a half cup of this tea, made from steeping the root in boiling water, twice a day. McIntyre says this herb could be added to a bath to relieve pain. Black cohosh can also be taken in tablet form.
Warning
The Mayo Clinic warns that black cohosh could possibly cause stomach upset and headaches. The Mayo Clinic advises not to take black cohosh for more than six months without your doctor's consent, as long-term clinical trials have not been performed, and, therefore, long-term side effects are not known. Zak adds to this warning, saying black cohosh should be used in small amounts. She advises not to take it regularly, but that it is more of a short-term method of relief.
References
- "Guide to Alternative Medicine 2007"; Mayo Clinic; 2007
- "The Complete Woman's Herbal"; Anne McIntyre; 1994
- "20,000 Secrets of Tea"; Victoria Zak; 1999
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Black Cohosh
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