Black Cohosh
What is Black cohosh?
Black cohosh, Cimicifuga racemosa, is a member of the buttercup family. It is used as a natural therapy to relieve menopause symptoms.
How does Black cohosh work?
Black cohosh is thought to have estrogenic activity, however its actual mode of action is not fully known or understood.
What is Black cohosh use for?
Black cohosh was traditionally used to treat:
- back pain
- pain along the sciatic nerve
- whooping cough
- a movement disorder called chorea
- ringing in the ears
- menstrual cramps
- uterine colic
- muscular rheumatism
- rheumatoid arthritis
Extracts of Black cohosh roots and rhizomes are used today to relieve menopause symptoms such as:
- hot flashes
- anxiety
- nervousness
- irritability
- depressive moods
- mood swings
- night sweats
- sleep disturbances
Does Black cohosh have any side effects?
Yes! Even a natural therapy such as Black cohosh can have side effects. Although generally well tolerated, side effects, though uncommon, have been reported.
Look out for side effects such as:
- nausea
- vomiting
- gastric complaints
- dizziness
- headaches
Black cohosh may stimulate contractions and cause premature labor, so women who are pregnant or think they may be pregnant should avoid using Black cohosh.