Studies Show Black-Cohosh Effective for PMS, Menopause, Depression, Arthritis, High Blood Pressure, Asthma...

Black-Cohosh is a widely used plant in many parts of the world. The hairy roots of this plant have been used in Chinese medicine for centuries as a remedy for conditions such as headache, non-eruptive measles, gingivitis, and other disorders.

Native Americans used it as a remedy for painful menses, problematic childbirth, arthritic problems, and as an antidote for snakebite. Some physicians in America at the turn of the century relied on preparations of black cohosh for many problems, including rheumatism and female complaints.

Scientists have been studying black cohosh’s ability to mimic the effects of the hormone estrogen on the body. This may have applications in the support of women going through menopause.

In fact, clinical studies have reported that Black-Cohosh is highly effective on menopausal and post-menopausal complaints and Hot Flashes when using standardized extracts of black cohosh.

One study has suggested that black-cohosh may have a component that produces a hormonal balancing effect in the female reproductive system. Other studies which were designed to show the estrogen-like activity of black-cohosh and the benefit of it on the symptoms associated with menopause have had disappointing results.

The results showed little to no estrogen activity and no benefit over a placebo in improving certain menopausal symptoms. Another concluded that an extract improved menopausal symptoms but demonstrated no estrogen-like activity.

The root has also shown promise in the management of rheumatoid arthritis and headache. It is believed that some of the active components in black cohosh can have an anti-inflammatory effect.

The compounds, known as phytoestrogens, in black cohosh have been shown to decrease the growth of certain types of breast cancer, but may enhance the growth of others. It is a good idea to discuss the use of Black-Cohosh for cancer with a qualified healthcare professional.