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Black Cohosh

Description

Black cohosh is so named because the rhizomes are black, and "cohosh" comes from an Algonquian word meaning rough, again describing the rhizomes. Native Americans have used the herb for many conditions, ranging from female problems to rattlesnake bites. Black Cohosh may provide a safe alternative to synthetic hormones in female problems, such as menopause and PMS.

Signs and Symptoms for Nutrient Applications

- Menopause symptoms (hot flashes, mood changes, vaginal atrophy) - PMS - Amenorrhea - Facilitating labor and delivery - Cardiovascular support - Osteoporosis

Clinical Applications/Research

Menopause

Many physicians recommend hormone replacement therapy, but only 10-20% of the menopausal women actually take HRT treatment. The primary reason for this is the fear of breast cancer from the HRT treatment. Many patients are reaching for more alternative therapies. Black cohosh is one example. Black cohosh is most widely used in supplements for female conditions because of its natural estrogen properties. A study done in Germany involving 629 female patients, demonstrated that black cohosh improved the psychological and physical symptoms of menopause in more than 80% of the patients within two months. Another study of 60 patients showed that black cohosh improved anxiety and depression symptoms in menopause better than Valium and conjugated estrogens combined. Hot flashes also improved. The black cohosh group actually exhibited greater numbers of superficial cells in the vaginal lining.

Breast Cancer prevention

Black cohosh does not stimulate the growth of estrogen-dependent, breast cancer cells, a fear in HRT therapy. Actually, black cohosh may inhibit the growth of these cells. Black cohosh has been shown to inhibit serum-stimulated growth in both T-47D and MCF-7 breast cancer cells in vitro (Dixo –Shanies, et al, Growth inhibition of human breast cancer cells by herbs and phytoestrogens. Oncol Rep 1999 Nov-Dec; 6(6):1383-7). The occupation of estrogen receptors by far less potent phytoestrogens, such as black cohosh, reduces the physiological influence by endogenous estrogens, thereby decreasing risk of estrogen-dependent malignancies. Black Cohosh is also known for its tonic action on the heart and circulation. It has been shown to vasodilate the peripheral nerves and aid in hypotensive conditions.

Suggested Dosage

80 mg 1-3 times daily or as directed by your healthcare professional.

Contraindications/Toxicology

Black cohosh is well tolerated by most patients and has an excellent history of consistent patient compliance and satisfaction.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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