Native Americans used black cohosh to ease menstrual cramps and symptoms of menopause, and this herb is still used today for similar reasons, states the University of Maryland Medical Center. It is a plant in the buttercup family that contains chemical compounds that can have health benefits. Before consuming black cohosh, ask your doctor whether it is safe for you to take, as it may interact with certain medications or medical conditions.
Menopausal Symptoms
Black cohosh has been used in Germany to help manage menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, according to Drugs.com. No scientific studies confirm this herb's efficacy for these symptoms, and more research needs to be done. UMMC adds that German studies have found black cohosh to be effective also in relieving other menopausal symptoms like anxiety, night sweats and vaginal dryness. Long-term effects of using this herb are not known, so it is recommended that black cohosh only be taken for less than six months at a time.
Osteoporosis
As you age, you may have an increased risk of osteoporosis, or thinning bones, which can lead to fractures. Black cohosh may be able to reduce your risk of developing this condition. A 2008 study published in the journal "Bone" found that in a mice model, black cohosh promoted bone growth by enhancing bone nodule formation in osteoblasts. This was thought to occur in association with estrogen receptors, which may make this supplement good for postmenopausal women. Estrogen helps to build bone, and after menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly. Black cohosh may act as a replacement, helping to mediate bone loss. Studies are still being performed to investigate the effects of black cohosh on bones.
Arthritis
Arthritis can cause inflammation and joint pain, but black cohosh, along with several other herbs, may help reduce inflammation associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. According to UMMC, preliminary studies of a mixture of black cohosh, guaiacum, willow bark, resin, poplar bark and sarsaparilla decreased arthritis symptoms. There have not been clinical studies in humans to definitively recommend this herb for arthritis relief, but ask your health care provider if the herb may be appropriate for your condition.
Dosing
Typical black cohosh tablet dosages range from 40 to 80 mg daily, standardized to have 1 mg of 27-deoxyactein, explains UMMC. For a tincture, add 2 to 4 ml to water or tea, three times a day. Individuals with liver conditions or those who consume alcohol regularly should not take this herb due to reported cases of liver toxicity. Pregnant and nursing women should not consume black cohosh.
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