Benefits of Black Cohosh

What is black cohosh? What are the benefits of black cohosh? What are the side effects of black cohosh?

Black cohosh is an herb which is also sometimes referred to as black snakeroot or bugbane. Before black cohosh extract was introduced and marketed as a dietary or herbal supplement, it was used by Native Americans for many years as a remedy to treat rheumatism, malaria, gynecological problems, sore throats, kidney problems and depression. Fresh or dried black cohosh roots and underground stems or rhizomes were made into strong tea to treat these ailments because of its analgesic, sedative and anti inflammatory properties

Black cohosh root extracts are now sold in the form of capsules and liquid extract or tinctures. You will find black cohosh being sold with other herbs such as dong quai root, chasteberry, eleuthero, pasque flower, cramp bark, fennel seeds as additional ingredients for additional support.

By itself, one of the most talked about benefits of black cohosh is its ability to promote menopausal health. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends it for short term relief of some menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, heart palpitations and irritability.

When combined with other herbs, black cohosh may help women who have premenstrual disorder or PMS such as muscle cramps. It may also soothe pains in the third stage of labor, promotes postnatal recovery and shrink the uterus back. Other benefits of black cohosh include maintaining a healthy sleeping pattern, maintain regular menstrual cycle and supports hormone levels involved in fertility.

Although black cohosh are known for its healing properties for menopausal symptoms well as for irregular menstruation and to stimulate labor, it long term safety is still uncertain. Some of the reported side effects of black cohosh are headaches and stomach pains. And although black cohosh has not shown to interact with other prescribed medicines, women are recommended to seek professional advice before adding black cohosh as a supplement.

The experts at US Pharmacopeia have advised women to stop taking black cohosh herbal supplements if they have a liver disorder or have developed symptoms associated with the liver such as abdominal pain, dark urine or jaundice. Studies are still being made to ascertain if black cohosh may have contributed to liver trouble, its long term side effects and to ascertain if it is safe for pregnant women or those with cancer.

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