It is also known as black cohosh. (Actaea racemosa, also known as Cimicifuga racemosa) It is a perennial plant that is part of the Buttercup family. It is indigenous to North America and has been identified by many different names throughout history, including macrotys, snakeroot, black bugbane, bugseed, and rattleweed.
In traditional Native American medicine, the black cohosh's roots were utilized to treat cough, fever muscles, pain in the musculoskeletal system, and other complications that can arise from childbirth.
Nowadays, the herb is often utilized as a supplement to diet to ease symptoms of menopausal and other issues that affect women. However, the research supporting its efficacy in addressing health problems is insufficient.
This article will help you learn about black cohosh, including its benefits, use, safety, and adverse consequences.
Potential Benefits of Black Cohosh
Black cohosh has a variety of health benefits, however it is primarily utilized to treat hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms.
Here's a look at the research findings regarding the health benefits of black cohosh.
May Relieve Menopausal Symptoms
Black cohosh is a promising ingredient for treating menopausal symptoms; however, its precise mechanism isn't clear.
Menopausal symptoms are a natural biological process that happens in women when their period ceases for good. It is characterized by hormonal changes which cause vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and even hot flushes.
A review published in 2022 suggested that black cohosh could have more efficacy than a placebo for improving vasomotor symptoms caused by menopausal changes. But, it doesn't appear to be more effective than conventional treatment options like progesterone and estrogen treatment.
A study conducted in 2018 involving menopausal women discovered that 20 milligrams (mg) of black cohosh extract every day for 8 weeks significantly improved the severity of hot flashes.
A small study also discovered that black cohosh could aid in reducing menopausal sleep disturbances.
However, it's important to keep in mind that while certain studies have shown the potential advantages of black cohosh for decreasing menopausal symptoms, other studies have not observed any evidence of a significant connection. Further studies of a high standard are needed to establish a strong connection between the plant and menopausal symptoms.
May Help Prevent Breast Cancer
Confident women with breast cancer have been reported less and milder hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms applying black cohosh.
Additionally, there is no evidence to suggest that the herb could be beneficial to the recurrence of breast cancer. Studies conducted on women who do not have a previous history of breast cancer have not found a significant link.
It is important to remember that the majority of studies showing these benefits are observational, which means they are unable to prove a causal cause-and-effect connection.
May Relieve Symptoms of PCOS
Black cohosh could provide benefits to people suffering from polycystic ovary disorder (PCOS), which is a condition that is characterized by an imbalance in hormones. The symptoms of PCOS usually include an irregular menstrual cycle, infertility, an increase in facial hair, and hair loss.
A study conducted in 2014 on 98 patients suffering from PCOS and infertility discovered that black cohosh could increase the chances of pregnancy when used with Clomid. This medication is frequently used for infertility treatment. Researchers found that the herb could aid in menstrual cycle control.
A review in 2022 found that there was no quality evidence to prove the efficacy of black cohosh in improving the rate of pregnancy in women suffering from PCOS-related infertility.
Other Uses
Other uses for black cohosh are:
- Dryness in the vagina
- Vertigo (an external or internal spinning sensation)
- Sleep disturbances
- Heart palpitations
- Tinnitus (a sound that rings within the ear)
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
There is a shortage of evidence-based proof to prove the efficacy of black cohosh in supporting these purposes.
Many women also take black cohosh by itself or other herbs to help stimulate labor induction. However, it is important to note that black cohosh use isn't recommended during pregnancy since it's not extensively studied and has been linked with severe adverse reactions when used with blue cohosh.
How to Take Black Cohosh
Black cohosh supplements for dietary use are constructed from the plant's roots and underground stems. They are usually sold as teas, pills, powders, and liquid extracts.
Black cohosh is generally consumed anytime during the day. Some studies show improvement in symptoms following the consumption of black cohosh for two to three months. But this may depend on the individual.
Since its long-term safety isn't widely known, Some health experts suggest restricting its use to under six months.
Dosage
There isn't a standard dosage for supplements made from black cohosh. The most common dosage is 40 milligrams, ranging from 20 to 160 milligrams a day.
Always consult your doctor to ensure your safety and determine the correct dosage.
Is Black Cohosh Safe?
Black cohosh is generally considered safe for use in short-term situations. But there are a few security concerns to consider.
Potential Drug Interactions
The possibility of black cohosh interaction with medicines is very low. However, preliminary animal research suggests that it might hinder the efficacy of statins and cholesterol-lowering medications like Crestor (rosuvastatin) and Lipitor (atorvastatin).
There are also concerns that it could cause interactions with the following drugs:
- Diabeta, Glynase (glyburide)
- Paerone (amiodarone)
- Allegra (fexofenadine)
What to Look For
The FDA doesn't test nutritional supplements for safety or effectiveness before their sale. That means there is no assurance that the product's label accurately Represents the ingredients contained in the supplement.
Some supplements made with black cohosh have been discovered to contain a different herb or blend of herbs that aren't mentioned on the product label.
To ensure you are getting an effective supplement, choose an item from a reliable manufacturer that employs a third-party testing method to confirm the quality and accuracy of the ingredients.
Reputable third-party testing companies include:
- United States Pharmacopeia (USP)
- ConsumerLab
- NSF International
Can You Have Too Much Black Cohosh?
Consuming excess black cohosh can increase the risk of adverse consequences. Reports suggest that it could damage the liver. It isn't certain if these incidents were caused by excessive consumption or by other impurities or herbal substances found in black cohosh supplements.
Furthermore, since the long-term safety of this product is unknown, most health experts suggest limiting its use to no more than 6 months. However, clinical studies have not found any serious adverse side effects during twelve months of usage.
Always use black cohosh as directed to avoid any security concerns.
Side Effects of Black Cohosh
Most clinical trials have found a low rate of serious adverse side effects. However, there were reports of mild side effects, which included:
- Afraid stomach
- Cramping
- Rashes
- Feeling of weightiness
- Vaginal bleeding
- Weight loss
Individuals suffering from liver problems, as well as nursing mothers and pregnant women, must consult their health doctor before taking black cohosh.
A Quick Review
Black cohosh is a herb commonly used to treat different health problems, especially ones related to women's health. Although some research supports its efficacy in treating menopausal hot flashes, research into its other applications is sporadic.
Black cohosh used for short-term use is generally regarded as safe and has a lower risk of causing severe adverse consequences. However, it's essential to talk with your physician prior to using black cohosh supplements, particularly if you're taking any other medication.