Overview
Black cohosh is an herb that was a popular home remedy in the 19th century, and is making a comeback as a natural treatment for several conditions. However, its long-term efficacy hasn’t been proven — nor has its safety, according to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM).
You should avoid taking black cohosh if you are allergic to aspirin or salicylate, or if you have liver problems, or a history of high blood pressure, seizures or blood clots. Experts also say that its safety in pregnant women hasn’t been established, so avoid taking it if you’re pregnant. Black cohosh has several potential uses. Do not confuse it with blue cohosh, however, which is an entirely different herb.
Menopausal Symptoms
Women who might otherwise choose prescription hormonal therapy to treat menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, migraines, vaginal dryness and sleep disturbance, may find black cohosh an effective alternative. The Mayo Clinic notes that initial research indicates that black cohosh might improve some of these symptoms for up to six months, but research results are mixed, and it’s unclear what the long-term effects might be. A study funded by the NCCAM found that black cohosh was ineffective in relieving hot flashes and night sweats in both post- and pre-menopausal women.
Menstrual Migraines
Along the same lines, the Mayo Clinic says that black cohosh is a potential treatment for menstrual migraine headaches. Thirty percent of women who have migraines tend to have these headaches in relation to the onset of their periods. However, the Mayo Clinic notes that additional studies are necessary before a strong recommendation in favor of black cohosh as a migraine reliever can be made.
Arthritis Pain
In the past, black cohosh has been used to treat arthritis pain, but there’s little medical evidence of its efficacy in this area, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Infertility
Black cohosh has also been used as an herbal treatment for infertility, but both the Mayo Clinic and the NCCAM warn that evidence doesn’t support this use. Additionally, if you’re pregnant, you shouldn’t take this herb, according to both organizations.
Breast Cancer
Black cohosh has also been used as a treatment for breast cancer, but the Mayo Clinic notes that there hasn’t been enough human research to recommend it, and the NCCAM warns that it’s not clear if black cohosh is safe for women who have had breast cancer. The Mayo Clinic warns that the influence of black cohosh on anti-estrogen drugs such as tamoxifen or hormone replacement therapy is unclear.
About this Author
Kristin Sullivan is a longtime freelance writer for numerous national publications. Under a pseudonym, she has written six novels, which have been translated into numerous languages and are sold all over the world.
