Black cohosh is a member of the buttercup family and both its roots and rhizomes are used for medicinal properties. The term black refers to the dark colour of the rhizome. Black cohosh, scientifically known as Cimcifuga racemosa is a medicinal herb used widely in folk medicine, particularly for female hormonal balance and arthritis(UMMC).It has also been researched for its anti-allergic qualities and small studies found blach cohosh potentially beneficial for this condition. If you suffer from allergies and consider taking black cohosh, you should first talk to your health care provider.
Research
Based on the fact that black cohosh has been used in oriental medicine for pain and inflammation, a medical team from Korea evaluated the benefits of this herb in improving allergies. Their research, published in May 2004 issue of "Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology" found that oral doses of black cohosh extract showed antihistaminic qualities and may have potential in managing allergies. Scientists from Wilkes University also report an anti-allergies effect of black cohosh, among other therapeutic benefits.
Dosage
Black cohosh can be taken as a fresh or dry root or as an over-the-counter supplement in liquid or tablet forms. The daily dosage should not exceed 80 mg black cohosh in tablet form or 2 to 4 ml black cohosh tincture two to three times a day. This dosage will be adjusted by your health care provider based on the severity of your symptoms and other medical conditions you may have associated with allergy.
Side Effects and Drug Interactions
Black cohosh is not recommended in pregnant women as large doses may induce miscarriage. An overdose can cause dizziness, nausea and increased perspiration. Researchers are not sure whether black cohosh stimulates the growth of breast cancer cells or inhibits their growth. For this reason, women at risk of getting breast cancer should not use black cohosh, the University of Maryland Medical Center says.
There are no known drug or herb interactions between black cohosh and conventional drugs; however, it may interact with other herbs or vitamins, the University of Maryland Medical Center warns.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health care provider to find out optimal dosage for your condition and any other herbs or supplements that may be combined with black cohosh for allergy relief. Keep in mind that black cohosh should not replace conventional anti-allergy drugs and is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat allergies.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Black Cohosh
- Wilkes University: Medical Attributes of Cimicifuga Racemosa - Black Cohosh; A. Kostick et al; July 2005
- "Immunopharmacology and Immunotoxicology"; Inhibition of Mast Cell-dependent Allergy Reaction by Extract of Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa); May, 2004
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