How Much Black Cohosh to Take & When to Take for Perimenopause?

Black cohosh is an herbal supplement some women take to alleviate discomfort caused by perimenopause. This herb was used for centuries by Native Americans to treat ailments distinct to women, namely reproductive ailments. Because black cohosh is an herbal supplement, it isn't approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Despite a lack of endorsement from a government agency, this herb continues to be a popular choice for perimenopausal relief.

Dosage

• Black cohosh is available for use in many forms. Dosage amounts are dependent on which form of supplement you choose. Another factor to note when considering dosage is that black cohosh is not grown on farms but is harvested from woods and forests in North America. Because of the lack of control in the growing of this flowering herb, the effectiveness of some batches aren't always up to par. Use a label or brand name you trust, preferably one recommended by your herbalist.
  Black cohosh is available to take as a capsule supplement. The herb is dried, ground into a powder and put into capsule form. The optimal amount of black cohosh to take in capsule form is 40mg per day. Because side effects can occur, however, you should take only 20mg for the first couple of days. When you're satisfied that this dosage is safe for you, then take the black cohosh herb twice daily for a total of 40mg per day. One 20mg dose in the morning and one 20mg dose in the evening are the recommended dosages.

  Some women prefer to drink the herb as a tea. When made into a tea, black cohosh is very bitter. Add wild honey or a little bit of fresh ginger to the tea to make it more palatable. Health food stores sell the dried roots you can brew for tea. Place 1 tsp. of dried black cohosh root into 1 cup of water and let it come to a boil. While the tea heats, add 1 tsp. of honey to your tea cup. After the brew reaches the boiling point, lower the temperature to a simmer. Let the tea simmer for about 20 minutes. Then take the tea off the heat and let it steep for one minute. Strain the tea into a cup, stir it and drink. If you desire, make an overnight brew instead. Place 20g of dried root and 34 oz. of fresh water in a pitcher. Cover the pitcher. Let the ingredients set together overnight, then strain the mixture and drink. You should use black cohosh tea once or twice a day, drinking one cup each time.

When To Take It

• Perimenopause is a term used to describe the period right before menopause when major endocrine, reproductive and hormonal changes occur. Perimenopausal symptoms include irregular or heavy bleeding, hot flashes triggered by changing hormones and light to severe cramping. Other symptoms related to perimenopause are vaginal dryness and bladder problems. Taking black cohosh may give you relief from some of these symptoms.