Treating Menopause with Black Cohosh
Used for hundreds of years to treat everything from rheumatism to induce labor, Actaea racemosa or its more common name, black cohosh is widely considered one of the best herbs to also treat symptoms of menopause. Native to eastern parts of North America, black cohosh is considered one of the preeminent natural alternatives to relieving symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes. Read on to find out more about black cohosh and its use in treating symptoms of menopause.
What is Black Cohosh?
Identified by its characteristically jagged green leaves and knobbly roots, cimicifuga or black cohosh is considered the gold standard in helping to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause. Often mistaken for blue cohosh, a more dangerous cousin, this natural herb helps menopause suffers grappling with night sweats, hot flashes, anxiety and depression.
How Does Black Cohosh Work to Treat Menopause?
Mimicking the effects caused by estrogen, black cohosh works to govern the menstrual cycle which declines after menopause. It helps to relieve uterine problems such as poor uterine tone and postmenopausal vaginal dryness. Its medicinal properties are derived from the root which are used either fresh or dried to make strong teas, liquid extracts (tinctures), pills or capsules. Although studies are generally mixed on the herb’s effectiveness in relieving menopausal symptoms, women have reported having reduced hot flashes and night sweats after treatment with black cohosh.
Containing the anti-inflammatory salicyclic its effects can also help to relieve muscle, pelvic and rheumatic pain. Women who reported taking black cohosh extract showed no added effects. Black cohosh is preferred by naturalists and healthcare professionals as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy because of its unwanted side effects.
Side Effects of Black Cohosh
Commonly used in combination with estrogen therapy, black cohosh has only been reported to produce mild gastrointestinal problems, headaches or occurrence of rashes in a small percentage of female users. Pregnant and breast feeding women should avoid taking blak cohosh because studies remain inconclusive on its effects to hormone sensitivities. Generally black cohosh is a safe and effective treatment for symptoms of menopause and hot flashes. Yet it is always wise to consult your doctor or experienced naturalist before starting any type of herbal treatment.
Click here to read more information about treatments for menopause using black cohosh.
Sources
• “Black Cohosh for Menopause.” Women Living Nautrally. www.womenlivingnaturally.com
• “Black Cohosh: Herbal Remedies.” Discovery Health. www.howstuffworks.com
• “Black Cohosh.” Natural Remedies Review. www.naturalremediesreview.com
