Native Americans used black cohosh for a variety of health problems, ranging from menstrual cramps to upset stomach. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, black cohosh may be useful for conditions such as menopause, arthritis and osteoporosis. However, taking black cohosh may potentially cause serious health problems. Consult with your doctor before taking black cohosh medicinally.
How It Works
Black cohosh contains several types of compounds that may be responsible for its medicinal properties.The main active ingredients in black cohosh are triterpine glycosides, which may help to alleviate menopausal symptoms. Phytoestrogens in black cohosh are plant-based estrogens that may produce estrogen-like effects in your body. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that phytoestrogens may inhibit bone loss, such as that occurring with osteoporosis. Isoferulic acids in black cohosh may have anti-inflammatory properties.
Preparations and Dosing
You can buy black cohosh supplements in tablet form, standardized to contain 1 mg of glycoside in a 20 mg tablet. Black cohosh is also available in combination with other similar herbs such as dong quai and red clover. According to DrugDigest.org, black cohosh can be taken in doses of 1 to 4 tablets, or 20 mg to 80 mg, twice daily. You should not take black cohosh for longer than six months.
Long-Term Use
Black cohosh is typically not used for long periods of time. Furthermore, research studies have tested black cohosh for only six months or less. The possible estrogenic effects of black cohosh suggest that long-term use may be harmful to the uterus and breast, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). However, the NIH also reports that there are no published studies on the long-term safety of black cohosh in humans, particularly regarding abnormal effects on uterine or breast tissue.
Other Considerations
You may occasionally experience side effects from taking black cohosh, including stomach upset, headache, dizziness, perspiration and increased weight. If taken in high doses, black cohosh can cause a slowing of your heart rate, seizures and vision problems. Avoid black cohosh if you have liver problems or a history of breast cancer. Also, do not take black cohosh if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Member Comments