Black Cohosh Vs. Red Clover

Black cohosh and red clover are both popular supplements for the treatment of menopausal symptoms, specifically vasomotor symptoms. Vasomotor symptoms relate to changes in nerve and muscular functions that regulate constriction and dilation of blood vessels that lead to commonly felt hot flashes of menopausal women. The actual effects and safety of these compounds in the treatment of menopausal and vasomotor symptoms are not well understood. Do not use either of these supplements without consulting your doctor.

Hot Flashes

A large clinical trial from the University of Chicago, which was published in 2010 in the journal "Filoterapia," measured the activity of black cohosh and red clover in the treatment of hot flashes in pre- and post-menopausal women. Compared to placebo treatments, the supplements did not significantly decrease hot-flash symptoms. Interestingly, in this experiment, women who received black cohosh exhibited an overall significant increase in hot flashes.

Anxiety

Anxiety is another symptom of menopause that black cohosh and red clover are thought to treat, although the data are limited and not definitive. In the same clinical trial mentioned above, researchers found that women given red clover exhibited a slight but significant decrease in anxiety compared to the placebo. Women given black cohosh, on the other hand, did not exhibit a noticeable significant effect on anxiety compared to the placebo.

Cancer

Neither black cohosh nor red clover has been studied extensively in cancer. Both compounds regulate hormones and are not indicated with breast, cervical or ovarian cancer. Red clover can induce growth of human breast cancer cells. Black cohosh can increase the activity of the chemotherapeutic drugs, doxorubicin and docetaxel, potentially worsening the drugs' side effects. Black cohosh can also decrease the effectiveness of cisplatin. The data on these compounds do not support effective cancer self-treatment.

Adverse reactions

Most reported side effects of black cohosh and red clover appear to be minor, however, in other reports, more severe side effects of both supplements have been reported. According to MedlinePlus, due to the effects of red clover and black cohosh on hormone signaling, these compounds may not be safe during pregnancy and fetal development. Black cohosh can cause liver toxicity, while red clover may decrease the liver's ability to metabolize drugs. More research is necessary.

Cautions

Comparing black cohosh and red clover is difficult. According to a search of primary scientific articles on pubmed, black cohosh appears to have more severe side effects compared to red clover, however, it should also be noted that black cohosh has been studied more extensively than red clover. Not having proper data about side effects does not equate to not having side effects. Consult your doctor before trying any supplements and stop taking anything if you begin to feel unwell.