Hot Flashes Alternative Black Cohosh

Black cohosh has been used for countless generations by indigenous North Americans as a medicinal herb. In more modern times, black cohosh is used primarily to reduce the symptoms of female menopause, which includes hot flashes and night sweats. Anecdotal evidence is supportive of its effectiveness, although high-quality studies proving benefits for menopausal women are conflicting or lacking. Consulting with a health professional before starting a supplement regiment is always recommended.

Black Cohosh

Black cohosh, or Actaea racemosa, is a perennial plant and member of the buttercup family that is native to North America. It is also commonly called black snakeroot, bugbane, bugwort and rattleweed. The roots and underground stems of the plant are used for herbal preparations. Both liquid extracts and tablets are commercially available.

Traditional Uses of Black Cohosh

Black cohosh was used by Native Americans for a variety of purposes, but mainly to treat gynecological problems, malaise, fevers, kidney issues and sore joints, as cited in "The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine." During the 19th century in the United States, black cohosh became a relatively popular home remedy to treat rheumatism, infections and to stimulate menstruation and enhance female fertility.

Modern Uses of Black Cohosh

Black cohosh is now used primarily for hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, which include insomnia, depression and vaginal dryness. Menopause is a natural stage in a woman's life when changes in estrogen and other hormone levels lead to the cessation of menses and the ability to become pregnant, as cited in "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine." Menopause typically begins in a woman's 40s, although it can range from 35 to 55 years of age. Changing levels of hormones affect metabolism, mood and vasodilation, which is the diameter of blood vessels. During menopause, blood vessels dilate at inappropriate times, which cause flushing of the skin, especially around the face and neck. The increased amount of blood under the surface of the skin is perceived as hot flashes, which are often uncomfortable and affect sleep patterns.

Black Cohosh and Hot Flashes

Black cohosh is theorized to work at reducing menopausal symptoms because it mimics the properties of estrogen and acts to balance hormone levels naturally, as cited in "Medical Herbalism: The Science Principles and Practices of Herbal Medicine." A study published in a 2001 edition of the "Journal of Clinical Oncology" found that black cohosh reduced hot flash symptoms in women with a history of breast cancer, although not significantly more than placebo. According to the National Institutes of Health, some studies suggest that black cohosh may help relieve menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, but other study results do not. Researchers state that studies of black cohosh have yielded conflicting data mainly because of poor design and short duration, although the data has been complicated by using different amounts and preparations of black cohosh.

Cautions

Black cohosh is meant for short-term use and studies have followed women for only six months or less, so long-term use is not recommended. However, black cohosh is generally regarded as safe in moderate doses and has been known to cause only minor symptoms, such as stomach discomfort, headaches and mild weight gain. Black cohosh is not considered a cure for menopause and a health professional should be consulted before supplementing.