Cimicifuga racemosa, known as black cohosh, grows wild in the eastern United States and Canada. Black cohosh root is mainly used for treating unpleasant symptoms of women's health conditions. Increased bleeding may be a side effect of black cohosh, although this is only theoretical, according to InteliHealth. Consult a qualified health care provider before using black cohosh as an herbal remedy.
Benefits
Black cohosh appears to have anti-inflammatory properties and estrogen-like effects. It may help improve symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, sleep problems and headaches. In addition, many women use black cohosh for relieving symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, or PMS--including pain, bloating, weight gain, breast tenderness and mood swings. InteliHealth cautions that research is lacking to support the use of black cohosh for PMS. Although many studies support the use of black cohosh for menopausal symptoms, some are not of high quality, according to InteliHealth.
Salicylic Acid
Commercial black cohosh preparations may contain a small quantity of salicylic acid, which occurs naturally in the plant. Salicylic acid, the chemical compound from which aspirin is derived, has anticoagulant activity. Taking black cohosh with aspirin or other medications or herbs with blood-thinning effects might increase the risk of abnormal bleeding, according to InteliHealth. Discuss your use of black cohosh with a doctor if you plan to have surgery in the near future.
Estrogen-Like Activity
A contrasting theoretical effect is an increased risk of blood clots, because of the estrogen-like activity of black cohosh, according to InteliHealth. Blood clots are rare but possible side effects of estrogen therapy, as noted by a research summary published in the May 7, 2002 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine. InteliHealth recommends that people with a history of blood clots be cautious about taking black cohosh.
Gynecological Effects
Black cohosh increases blood flow to the pelvis area, so it's not recommended during menstruation because it may cause a heavier or longer period, according to registered herbalist Phyllis D. Light. A small number of negative gynecological occurrences have been reported in women taking black cohosh--including vaginal bleeding and miscarriage, according to MayoClinic.com--but whether black cohosh is actually responsible has not been determined.
Side Effects
Increased bleeding due to anticoagulant effects of black cohosh is a theoretical risk only, according to InteliHealth. The most common side effects of black cohosh are generally mild and infrequent. They include stomach discomfort, nausea, constipation, rashes, dizziness, headaches and sweating. Liver problems have been associated with black cohosh products on rare occasion.
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