Black cohosh is an herbal remedy that women sometimes use to treat the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes. They use the roots of the plant to make teas or powder or extract them to make standardized capsules for use as supplements. However, some women should not take black cohosh due to safety concerns.
Effectiveness
Study results regarding the use of black cohosh for reducing hot flashes are mixed, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Some studies show an improvement, while others do not. Many studies were not well designed, so a well-designed, placebo-controlled study is needed to verify whether there is a beneficial effect from this supplement.
Side Effects
Side effects experienced by users of black cohosh include diarrhea, abdominal pain, dizziness, vomiting, weight gain, tremors, slow heart rate, nausea, joint pain, leg heaviness and dim vision. If you experience these side effects, you may want to stop taking black cohosh supplements.
Safety
You should not take black cohosh for more than six months, as the safety of longer-term use isn't established. Pregnant women shouldn't take this supplement as it may bring on early labor. If you have a hormone-sensitive condition, including fibroid tumors, endometriosis or breast, uterine or ovarian cancer, you should avoid taking this supplement. Black cohosh may also cause liver damage in some people.
Considerations
Speak with your doctor before taking black cohosh for hot flashes. Although no studies have verified interactions of black cohosh with medications, researchers at Yale University say it may interfere with certain cancer treatments.
Teas are less effective for treating menopause symptoms than standardized capsules, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
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