Shining the Light on Black Cohosh

Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) is an herb which grows in North America that was first introduced to early settlers from the American Indians. Over the past several years black cohosh has garnered a lot of publicity because it seems to have a weak estrogen-like activity in the body although other research has cast doubt on this. Nevertheless, studies have found that black cohosh may be of modest help at reducing hot flashes, cramps and other symptoms associated with menopause and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Most of the evidence we have on black cohosh comes from studies conducted in Germany, although it has been studied in America as well. While most of the studies to date have used rather small numbers of people, they generally indicate that black cohosh seems to decrease some symptoms of menopause and PMS.  Overall side effects stemming from black cohosh use seem minor and range from nausea and dizziness to vomiting.  Nevertheless, when deciding whether black cohosh is appropriate, there are things to consider and discuss with a doctor:

• Black cohosh may lower blood pressure. Thus, it may not be appropriate for those who are also using medications for hypertension, given that it may lower blood pressure even more than is desired.
• Black cohosh should not be used during pregnancy, in light of some evidence that it may induce a miscarriage.
• Black cohosh contains an aspirin-like compound called salicylic acid.  Thus, talk to your doctor before you combine black cohosh with aspirin, blood thinners or herbs with aspirin-like qualities such as gingko or ginseng.
• People should talk to their doctor if they are receiving chemotherapy. Black cohosh may augment some chemo therapy drugs.
• When choosing a black cohosh dietary supplement, it's important that the supplement contain the roots and underground stems (rhizomes) of the plant. This seems to be where the active ingredient is located. However, it should be noted that the active ingredient or ingredients in black cohosh are not well known.
• Don't confuse black cohosh with blue cohosh. Blue cohosh is unsafe for humans.
• Be sure the label of the dietary supplement indicates the species of the herb. Specifically you want the species Actaea racemosa. The alternative name for this plant is Cimicifuga racemosa.

Like many dietary supplements, finding a quality product that really contains what the label says it contains may be difficult. Since medical professionals may be privy to the more reputable and higher quality brands, this is another reason to talk to your physician before using black cohosh.

About the author: Joe Cannon, MS, CSCS, is an exercise physiologist, personal trainer, writer and health educator. He is the author of Nutritional Supplements: What Works and Why. A Comprehensive Review from A to Zinc and Nutrition Essentials, a Guidebook for the Fitness Professional. For more information visit his official website www.Joe-Cannon.com or drop Joe an email directly at JoeCannon@rcn.com