Black Cohosh

• Roots and rhizomes often used to treat menopausal symptoms and menstrual dysfunction. Was originally used by Native Americans to treat gynecological disorders. The most widely used and studied formulation is Remifemin.

• It was thought originally that Black Cohosh produced its effects by binding to and activating estrogen receptors. However, it is now unclear if its effects are via estrogen receptors or other mechanisms.

• The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology supports its use for up to 6 months in treating the menopausal symptoms of mood and sleep disturbances and hot flashes.

• At least eight studies have been done, including a total of 2,000 women; many have compared Black Cohosh to an estrogen product as the control. These have showed the benefits of the herb to be equal to the estrogen product in the relief of menopausal sym

• There is concern about the use of Black Cohosh in women with a personal or strong family history of breast cancer. One tissue-culture study showed that black cohosh did not stimulate estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cell lines.