Remifemin is an herbal supplement used to help treat menopause symptoms. This herb, also referred to as black cohosh, grows along the edge of wooded areas from Canada down through Missouri and Tennessee. Manufacturers use the root of the plant to make the herbal supplement. The herb may help improve menopause symptoms by acting like the reproductive hormone estrogen in a woman's body. Consult a health care professional before taking any herbal supplements.
Menopause Symptoms
Women may choose to use Remifemin instead of traditional hormone replacement therapy to control symptoms of menopause. Common symptoms associated with menopause that may improve when taking Remifemin include hot flashes, irritability, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances and mood swings. The herbal supplement does not affect the lining of the uterus. The supplement does not appear to help reduce hot flashes for women with a history of breast cancer.
Administration
A woman should follow the directions on the Remifemin package to determine the proper dose and frequency. A common dose of Remifemin is one tablet twice a day. Black cohosh is also available as a liquid tincture, an extract, a tea and a capsule. It may take at least four weeks to experience a considerable reduction in symptoms, but after taking the supplement for 12 weeks, women may experience up to a 70 percent reduction in menopausal symptoms, according to Drugs.com.
Side Effects
Along with the desired effects of Remifemin, some adverse reactions may occur. Most side effects are mild. A woman taking Remifemin may experience gastrointestinal distress, such as nausea and stomach cramping. Additional side effects include dizziness, weight gain, headache and vaginal bleeding. Liver damage may occur when taking Remifemin. Symptoms of liver damage include dark urine, a yellowing of the skin or eyes and fatigue. Women should report any unusual or bothersome side effects to a health care professional.
Considerations
Some women should not take Remifemin. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should check with a health care professional before taking the supplement to determine if it is safe for the developing baby. Women with hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast cancer, liver disease or seizure disorders should not take black cohosh. Women with a sensitivity to aspirin, a history of a stroke or high blood pressure should also avoid taking the supplement, according to the Merck Manuals Online Medical Library.
