Black cohosh, also known as Cimicifuga racemosa, is a member of the buttercup family and is used as an herbal remedy for a number of medical conditions. Native to North America, it was a popular home remedy in 19th-century America, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. It contains a number of biologically active compounds, including isoflavones and triterpene glycosides. It may also have estrogen-like effects. Talk to your doctor before using black cohosh as an alternative medical therapy.
What is it Used For?
RxList notes that black cohosh is used to treat a number of ailments, including premenstrual syndrome, upset stomach, muscle pain, painful menstruation, sore throat, and cough. It is primarily used to treat menopausal symptoms including hot flashes. Black cohosh may have antiosteoporotic effects, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, and may also decrease the proliferation of prostate cancer cells. Some people also take it to reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Does it Work?
The results of a randomized, multicenter, double-blind clinical trial published in the May 2005 issue of "Obstetrics and Gynecology" show that black cohosh helps to relieve hot flashes in menopausal women. However, an article published in 2009 in "Drugs and Aging" notes that most studies that have looked at the effects of black cohosh on menopausal symptoms have produced conflicting results. NCCAM notes that there is not enough reliable data to determine whether black cohosh is effective for other medical conditions.
What are the Side Effects and Contraindications?
NCCAM notes that black cohosh has been linked with liver problems, including hepatitis and liver failure, but whether black cohosh was responsible for these effects remains unclear. Black cohosh may cause other side effects including rash, stomach discomfort, headache and dizziness. This herb is not suitable for everyone; for example, people suffering from a hormone-sensitive condition such as breast cancer should not use this herb. It also interacts with several other drugs, including chemotherapeutic agents. Ask your doctor for advice before taking black cohosh.
How do I Take It?
The rhizomes and roots of the black cohosh plant are used to make a variety of herbal preparations including teas, tinctures, capsules and pills. The amount that you need to take will vary according to the condition you are trying to treat; however, RxList suggests taking 20 mg to 80 mg once or twice daily to treat menopausal symptoms, and 40 mg daily to treat osteoporosis. These doses are only intended to be a guideline. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the right dose for you.
References
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Black Cohosh
- RxList: Black Cohosh
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Black Cohosh
- CancerHelp UK: Black Cohosh
- PubMed: Efficacy and Safety of Isopropanolic Black Cohosh Extract for Climacteric Symptoms
- PubMed: Black Cohosh for the Management of Menopausal Symptoms : A Systematic Review of Clinical Trials
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