Black Cohosh contains substances that help balance female hormones. It is particularly beneficial in helping to relieve menopausal symptoms such as night sweats, hot flushes and irritability.1–4 It can also help to relieve symptoms of menstrual pain, headache and tiredness associated with menstruation.2

Black Cohosh is a perennial plant native to North America. Also known as Squaw root or Black snakeroot, the herb has been used for centuries by native Americans for a wide range of female conditions. The root tubers contain hormone-like substances.4

Action and uses of Black Cohosh
Black Cohosh is thought to have a modulating effect on centres of the brain that help to control dilation of blood vessels to reduce hot flushes and night sweats during the menopause.1 Black Cohosh is thought to decrease ovarian output of progesterone to help normalise the oestrogen-progesterone balance.
Over the past decade there have been a number of clinical trials that confirm the efficacy of Black Cohosh in treating menopausal symptoms. In European phytotherapy the herb is commonly prescribed as an effective alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) when used in treating short-term symptoms of the menopause such as night sweats and hot flushes.3

How much do you take?
At least 6.5mg (standardised dry extract) daily. 		 

Side effects/safety
Do not take during pregnancy or breast-feeding.
Not suitable for children.
Black Cohosh is generally well-tolerated and any side effects are rare. However, if for any reason you feel that you have experienced side effects, please consult your pharmacist
or doctor.
It is safe to take Black Cohosh with other supplements and there is no evidence that it interacts with prescribed medications at the recommended dosage.3,4 If you have suffered from an oestrogen dependent tumour such as breast cancer, you should not take Black Cohosh. Also, if you suffer from liver failure or have experienced jaundice, hepatitis or cirrhosis, you should only take Black Cohosh after talking to your doctor or pharmacist. As with any herbal supplement, if you believe you have a condition requiring medical treatment, you should consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Black Cohosh.