Black Cohosh 101 part 4

Does black cohosh work?

Well, this depends on whom you talk to. Many postmenopausal women swear that it works and there are just as many who claim that it does not work. Medical evidence based on a few trials indicates that perhaps for a few menopausal symptoms like migraines and hot flashes, black cohosh may work. The duration of treatment should be for no more than 6 months.

Can black cohosh cause allergies?

Yes, black cohosh or other members of the Ranunculaceae (buttercup or crowfoot) family can cause allergic problems. Further Black cohosh should be used cautiously in people allergic to aspirin or to salicylate.

Does black cohosh have any side effects?

Black cohosh is a safe supplement when used at low doses for up to 6 months. High doses of black cohosh have been known to cause headache, dizziness, sweating, or visual disturbances. Other side effects observed in clinical studies include constipation, abdominal cramps, bloating, loss of bone mass (leading to osteoporosis), irregular or slow heartbeat, low blood pressure, muscle damage, nausea, and vomiting. Confusion and tiredness have also been reported in many women. Sometimes, it is difficult to know whether one is having symptoms of menopause or side effects from the drug.

Is black cohosh safe when one has breast cancer?

No one knows for sure if black cohosh is safe in individuals with breast cancer, uterine cancer, or endometriosis. Because its action are not well understood, most health care professionals recommend against its use when such conditions exist.

Can black cohosh reduce stroke risk or improve bone mass?

No one knows if black cohosh can mimic the effects of estrogen on bone or whether it can reduce the risk of stroke

What complications have resulted from black cohosh?

With widespread use of black cohosh, there are now a fair number of complications reported. There are reports of liver failure with use of black cohosh. Some individuals have even required a liver transplant. While the number of patients with liver damage are low, it is still highly recommended that anyone with liver disease first consult a physician before taking black cohosh

Can black cohosh blood clots?

While the answer to this is not really known, black cohosh should be used with great caution in individuals with a history of blood clots, seizures, or high blood pressure

Is black cohosh safe during pregnancy?

The safety of black cohosh has not been established during pregnancy or in females who breast-feed. Black cohosh has been used in the past to stimulate labor. Most physicians recommend against the use of black cohosh during pregnancy.