Black cohosh is a dietary supplement used for menopausal symptoms.  It is an herb native to North America.  There exists some scientific evidence of potential benefits stemming from the use of black cohosh for menopausal symptoms, however, the evidence is not strong enough to widely recommend its use.  One of the reasons why black cohosh may provide benefit in menopausal women is that its actions resemble those of estrogen, which is insufficient during menopause.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has stated that black cohosh appears to provide some benefit to menopausal women, particularly when used for shorter periods of time (< 6 months).  The organization also makes it clear that there’s is still not enough evidence to recommend its use.

Black cohosh is available as a preparation called Remifemin.

Other black cohosh uses:

• Inflammatory state
• Menopausal symptoms
• Diarrhea
• Fluid retention

Black cohosh is considered to be a safe, but it should be avoided while taking blod pressure-lowering medications.  Pregnant women should also be advised not to take black cohosh due to an increased risk of miscarriage.

Other common names for black cohosh:

• Black snakeroot
• Bugbane
• Bugwort
• Rattleroot
• Rattletop
• Rattleweed
• Macrotys