The Effects of Black Cohash

The black cohosh plant belongs to the buttercup family and is native to North America. In the past, black cohosh was a common component in Native American medicine. Today, black cohosh is widely sold as an herb and is used by many to treat a variety of health disorders.

Menopause Symptoms

• Some believe that black cohosh can have a positive effect on symptoms commonly associated with menopause. Women take black cohosh to help relieve symptoms such as hot flashes, palpitations and vaginal dryness.

Menstrual Symptoms

• Some individuals also believe that black cohosh can have a positive effect on menstrual discomfort and premenstrual symptoms. This includes symptoms such as cramps and breast tenderness.

Other Uses

• Individuals may also use black cohosh for its reported effect on health problems such as pain in the uterus and ovaries, arthritis, diarrhea, post-labor pain and some respiratory infections.

Side Effects

• In addition to its reported benefits, black cohosh can potentially produce negative effects in some people. These effects include stomach and digestive problems, dizziness, headaches and tremors.

Misconceptions

• While some strongly believe in the positive effects of black cohosh, medical studies have not positively confirmed the efficacy or safety of its use. In addition, the long-term effects of using black cohosh are not yet known.