A member of the buttercup family, black cohosh is a plant native to North America. Black cohosh was originally used as medicine by Native Americans and as a home remedy in the United States during the 1800s. Common names of black cohosh include black snakeroot, bugbane, bugwort and rattleweed. MayoClinic.com warns not to confuse black cohosh with blue cohosh, which may cause heart damage and raise blood pressure. Always consult a physician before using black cohosh to treat any medical condition.
Uses
Black cohosh has historically been used to treat rheumatism -- both rheumatoid arthritis and rheumatoid muscle pain. It has also been used to treat malaise, gynecological disorders, kidney disorders, sore throats, colds, coughs, constipation, hives, backache, menstrual irregularities and premenstrual symptoms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, black cohosh's main modern use is the relief of menstrual cramps and symptoms related to menopause, including hot flashes, irritability, mood swings and sleep disturbances.
Reported Dangers
Reported side effects of black cohosh have included stomach discomfort, headaches, heaviness in the legs and weight problems. Most studies conducted on the use of black cohosh have followed participants for a period of six months or less; however, a recent long-term study following participants for a period of 5.2 years found a small, but significant, increase in the risks of developing certain diseases. The Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health states that the long-term use of black cohosh may lead to adverse effects in the breast and uterine tissues. Liver damage from black cohosh use has been reported in a few cases in the United States; however, research has not concluded that black cohosh can cause liver damage.
Dosing
Black cohosh use is not recommended for children as there is a lack of scientific study on possible complications and side effects. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the recommended daily dose of black cohosh is 40 to 80 mg of tablets standardized to contain 1 mg of 27-deoxyacetein. To be used as a tincture, dissolve 2 to 4 mg of black cohosh in water or tea, and drink the mixture three times daily. Black cohosh root may also be used to make a tea; however, the tea may not be as effective at relieving symptoms as the standardized dosage.
Additional Warnings
No known interactions between black cohosh and any drugs or laboratory tests exist; however, this has not been thoroughly studied. Consult your health care provider before beginning use of black cohosh. Women with a personal or family history of breast cancer also should not use black cohosh, nor should women with endometriosis, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer or uterine fibroids. Black cohosh should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should also not use black cohosh if you consume excessive amounts of alcohol or have liver damage.
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