Black Cohosh

By R. Morgan Griffin

Reviewed By David Kiefer, MD

LifeSource Vitamins

For centuries, the roots of the North American black cohosh plant have been used for various ailments. Black cohosh is now a popular remedy for the symptoms of menopause. This has been especially true since the risks of a standard treatment for menopause -- hormone therapy -- were publicized in 2002.

Why do people take black cohosh?

Black cohosh is most often used to control the symptoms of menopause, such as:

- Headaches

- Hot flashes

- Mood changes

- Sleep problems

- Heart palpitations

- Night sweats

- Vaginal dryness

Some studies have found evidence that black cohosh does help with these symptoms. However, many experts consider the evidence unclear and say that we need more research.

Other uses of black cohosh have less scientific support. Women sometimes take it to regulate periods, ease PMS symptoms, and induce labor. Black cohosh has also been used to relieve arthritis pain and help lower blood pressure. There are some preliminary laboratory studies showing that black cohosh may be useful in preventing or treating prostate cancer. Definitive research has not verified black cohosh's effectiveness for these uses.

How much black cohosh should you take?

For menopausal symptoms, the dose of black cohosh used in studies has been 20-40 milligrams tablets of a standardized extract taken twice a day. More than 900 milligrams a day of black cohosh is considered an overdose. There is some reference in studies to tinctures of black cohosh, with a dose range of 2-4 milliliters daily. Directions for taking black cohosh in other forms will vary. Some experts say that no one should take black cohosh for more than six months at a time.

Can you get black cohosh naturally from foods?

There are no food sources for black cohosh.

What are the risks of taking black cohosh?

Side effects from black cohosh include headaches and upset stomach. Side effects usually occur at high doses. There have been some people who may have developed liver problems after using black cohosh, the specifics of which are still being investigated. Nonetheless, people with pre-existing liver problems, or those taking any other medication/substance that affects the liver, should either avoid black cohosh or check in with their health care provider prior to use.

Risks. Black Cohosh may not be safe for:

Women who are pregnant (although it is sometimes used to induce labor)

Women who have -- or have had -- breast cancer or uterine cancer

Women who have endometriosis

Children under 18

People with liver disease, a high risk of stroke or blood clots, or seizure disorders

People with allergies to aspirin

Interactions. People taking birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, sedatives, or blood pressure medicine should not take black cohosh without the approval of their doctors.

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