Black Cohash

Black Cohosh is a herb that has been used for centuries by Native Americans and European settlers to treat various ailments, including musculoskeletal pain, fever, cough, pneumonia, sluggish labor, menstrual irregularities, and as a tonic to support women’s reproductive health. Black Cohosh is also used for symptoms of menopause, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), painful menstruation, weak and brittle bones, and many other conditions. 

Here are some benefits of Black Cohosh:

• Relieves menopause symptoms: Black Cohosh appears to be beneficial for relieving menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
• Reduces muscle aches and body pains: Black Cohosh binds to the body’s opioid receptors, giving it a painkilling effect. It is sometimes used to reduce the muscle aches and body pains associated with menopause, perimenopause, and postmenopause.
• Supports liver function: Traditional Chinese medicine has turned to Black Cohosh to support liver function.
• Reduces pain associated with menstrual dysfunction: Studies have demonstrated that Black Cohosh can reduce pain associated with menstrual dysfunction.

The recommended dosage of Black Cohosh varies depending on the form of the supplement. The typical dose of Black Cohosh root extract is 20-40 mg twice daily. The recommended dose of dried Black Cohosh root is 1-2 grams per day. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult with a healthcare provider before taking any supplement.

Black Cohosh is generally safe when taken appropriately. However, some people should avoid it or use it very carefully. Side effects of Black Cohosh are uncommon but may include digestive upset, nausea, skin rashes, infection, muscle pain, breast pain or enlargement, and spotting or bleeding outside of your menstrual cycle. Breast cancer patients or those at high risk for breast cancer should speak with a healthcare professional before using Black Cohosh. People with liver disease should avoid taking Black Cohosh until more is known about its effects on the liver.

Sources:

1. https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/BlackCohosh-HealthProfessional/
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/black-cohosh
3. https://www.verywellhealth.com/black-cohosh-88875
4. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-857/black-cohosh
5. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/what-is-black-cohosh/
6. https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2003/0701/p114.html