Menopause, sometimes known as "the change," is a biological process that happens to all women, usually when they are in their early 50s. In the lead up to menopause, the ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone, which in turn causes physical and emotional changes including hot flashes, weight gain, depression and mood swings. Although many women reach menopause without seeking medical advice, some women find menopausal symptoms intolerable. Hormone replacement therapy is an effective medical treatment but might increase the risk of stroke and cancer. Herbs might also help to relieve symptoms like hot flashes, although evidence to prove they are effective is limited as of 2011. Get medical advice before using herbs.
Black Cohosh
Also known as Cimicifuga racemosa, black cohosh is used as a complementary remedy for a variety of ailments including painful menstruation and osteoporosis. It is also used to reduce menopausal symptoms. Black cohosh contains a host of active compounds including isoflavones and triterpene glycosides and may have estrogen like effect, although the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center notes that evidence to prove this is mixed.
Administration
Black cohosh may be taken in a number of ways, either as a tea or herbal tincture or in tablets or capsules. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that 20mg taken twice daily is sometimes used to help alleviate hot flashes, irritability and mood swings. This dosage is, however, only intended as a guideline. Check with your doctor that this dose is suitable for you.
Effectiveness
The results of a study published in "Cancer Investigation" in 2004 show that black cohosh reduces hot flashes and is more effective than placebo. An analysis of data from nine randomized placebo-controlled trials, published in the January 2010 issue of "Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine," concludes that preparations containing black cohosh improve hot flashes and night sweats. In contrast, a review of research findings published in the July 2008 issue of "Pharmacological Research" concludes that it is unclear whether black cohosh alleviates menopausal symptoms.
Safety Considerations
Black cohosh might cause side effects including rashes, dizziness, nausea and vomiting. Its use has also been linked with several cases of liver injury although evidence to show that black coshoh was directly responsible is lacking. However, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center states that black cohosh use is, nevertheless, controversial and advises using it only under medical supervision.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Menopause
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Black Cohosh; Feb. 2011
- "Cancer Investigation"; Pilot Evaluation of Black Cohosh for the Treatment of Hot Flashes in Women; B.A. Pockaj, et al.; 2004
- "Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine"; Efficacy of Black Cohosh-Containing Preparations on Menopausal Symptoms: A Meta-Analysis; T. Shams, et al.; January 2010
- "Pharmacological Research"; Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga Racemosa) for Menopausal Symptoms: A Systematic Review of its Efficacy; F. Borrelli and E. Ernst; July 2008
