Black cohosh, known as black snakeroot, macrotys, bugbane, bugwort, rattleroots, rattleweed, Actaea racemosa and Cimicifuga racemosa has been used by Native Americans for over 200 years according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Historically black cohosh treated arthritis and muscle pain. Currently it is used to treat menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and palpitations, PMS, painful menstruation and menstrual irregularities. Black cohosh is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration; the UMMC recommends consulting a physician prior to taking black cohosh.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of black cohosh include abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, constipation, dizziness, headaches, joint pain and perspiration. Black cohosh can also cause visual dimness, muscle damage and loss of bone mass which can lead to osteoporosis. Irregular or slow heartbeats and decreased blood pressure have also been reported with black cohosh use.
Liver Toxicity
According to the UMMC, liver toxicity and hepatitis associated with black cohosh have been reported but not confirmed. The UMMC does not recommend that people with liver disease or high alcohol intake take black cohosh.
Gynecologic Effects
The Mayo Clinic says there have been reports of vaginal bleeding and miscarriage associated with black cohosh. According to the NCCAM and UMMC black cohosh may have labor-inducing capabilities and should not be taken by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding because it can cause contractions and pre-term labor.
Effects on Breast Cancer
According to the UMMC it is unclear whether black cohosh stimulates or inhibits growth of breast cancer cells. The Mayo Clinic says comparisions between black cohosh and estrogen are controversial and it is unclear whether the herb has an effect on anti-estrogen drugs and horomone replacement therapy. The UMMC advises women with a history or high risk of breast cancer to avoid black cohosh.
Additional Warnings
The Mayo Clinic warns that individuals with an allergy to buttercup or crowfoot should avoid black cohosh because they are from the same plant family. People who are allergic to aspirin should not take black cohosh because it contains small amounts of salicylic acid, the active ingredient in aspirin. The Mayo Clinic also advises people with a history of blood clots, seizures and high blood pressure to avoid black cohosh.
About this Author
Bethany Fong is a registered dietitian and chef from Honolulu, Hawaii. She has produced a variety of health education materials on multiple topics relating to wellness, and worked in many industries, including clinical dietetics, food service management and public health.
