Black cohosh is a herbaceous perennial found in the Northeastern United States. Native Americans used the root of the black cohosh plant to treat women's health problems. Later, American physicians used black cohosh for arthritis, fatigue and snake bites.
Soy is a complete source of protein. Currently, soy products are sold in the United States as dietary supplements. Studies have found them to be effective for improving human health. Because of potential adverse side effects and drug interactions, take herbal medicines or dietary supplements with care, under the supervision of a doctor.
Black Cohosh and Menopause
Black cohosh has a history as a folk medicine for the treatment of premenstrual discomfort and menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, profuse sweating, insomnia and anxiety. It is a powerful relaxing agent and is said to relax the uterus during menopause, thus helping to ease menstrual cramps, according to the "Yoga Journal."
Black Cohosh and Bone Loss
A 2007 study published in the journal "Chemistry and Biology" found that biologically active compounds in black cohosh, especially triterpenes, might inhibit bone loss, such as that seen with osteoporosis. The researchers did find that black cohosh inhibits bone loss by modulating TNF-alpha signaling pathways.
Soy and Menopausal Symptoms
Soy dietary supplements might provide an alternative means of preventing or reducing menopausal symptoms. The phytoestrogen content of soy creates an estrogen-like effect in the user, often reducing hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms, says the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Soy and Osteoporosis
Soy might protect bone mineral density in older women. It has been used in clinical trials and has shown promise for improving bone mineral reabsorption and remodeling, which leads to an increase in bone mineral density, says the Linus Pauling Institute. If you want to use soy dietary supplements, be sure to consult your doctor for advice on dosage.
References
- American Cancer Society: Black Cohosh
- Yoga Journal: Rx for Menstrual Cramps
- Chemistry and Biology; A Triterpene Glycoside from Black Cohosh that Inhibits Osteoclastogenesis by Modulating RANKL and TNFalpha Signaling Pathways; S.X. Qiu et al.
- National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine: Menopausal Symptoms and CAM
- Linus Pauling Institute; Soy Isoflavones; Jane Higdon
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