Black Cohosh Rhizome Extract
Also known as: Cimicifuga racemosa, Black cohosh, Bugbane, Bugwort, Rattleroot, Rattleweed, Actaea racemosa
Overview
Black cohosh (*Actaea racemosa*) is a perennial plant native to North America, belonging to the buttercup family. It traditionally has been used by Native Americans for several medicinal purposes, particularly related to gynecological health, rheumatism, and menopausal symptoms. The extract is primarily derived from the roots and rhizomes of the plant and contains various active compounds, including triterpene glycosides and phenolic compounds. Prominent applications of black cohosh include alleviating menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood disturbances without influencing hormone levels or estrogen-sensitive tissues. Extensive research, including clinical trials and systematic reviews, supports its efficacy and safety for such uses, establishing it as a popular herbal supplement among menopausal women seeking non-hormonal options.
Benefits
Black cohosh has been shown to significantly alleviate menopausal symptoms, particularly neurovegetative issues and psychological disturbances. A meta-analysis pooling data from 43,759 women reported a standardized mean difference of -0.694 for black cohosh efficacy compared to placebo (p < 0.0001), with a 26% improvement in vasomotor symptoms noted in other studies. Beyond menopause, black cohosh has potential anti-inflammatory effects and may positively influence bone metabolism. Notably, it has been found effective for menopausal women seeking relief without reliance on hormone therapy, presenting larger effect sizes when dosages reach 128 mg daily. The effects are usually observed within a few weeks of consistent usage, making it a preferred choice among women in this demographic.
How it works
Black cohosh is believed to exert its effects via the endogenous central opioid system, particularly through interactions with μ-opioid receptors, which may play a role in modulating symptoms of menopause. It has been shown to suppress luteinizing hormone activity in women, indicating a mechanism that does not involve estrogen receptor activation, contrary to earlier beliefs. The bioavailability of its active compounds, like 23-epi-26-deoxyactein, shows first-order kinetics, allowing dose-dependent increases in concentration within the body, suggesting effective absorption and action.
Side effects
Overall, black cohosh exhibits a favorable safety profile, being well-tolerated by most users. Commonly reported side effects include mild gastrointestinal disturbances, comparable to placebo (occurring in more than 5% of users). Uncommon side effects are minimal, and there have been no serious adverse events or hepatotoxicity linked to its usage in clinical trials. It poses no significant drug interactions, making it safe for concurrent use with other medications. However, patients with liver diseases or those on liver-affecting drugs should consult healthcare professionals before use. Importantly, it does not affect hormone levels, rendering it suitable for patients with hormone-dependent conditions.
Dosage
The standard minimum effective dose of black cohosh is typically 40 mg daily for managing menopausal symptoms. Clinical studies have employed dosages ranging from 40 mg to 128 mg per day, with higher doses correlating with greater effect sizes. While no established maximum safe dose exists, 128 mg per day has been safely used in trials. Users can take black cohosh capsules or tinctures (e.g., Remifemin) twice daily with consistent timing to optimize efficacy. Absorption factors indicate that the extracts exhibit effective metabolic profiles, being excreted in intact forms and metabolized efficiently.
FAQs
Is black cohosh safe for menopausal symptoms?
Yes, black cohosh is generally safe and does not impact hormone levels or estrogen-sensitive tissues, making it a suitable option for alleviating menopausal symptoms.
How should I take black cohosh?
It is recommended to take black cohosh consistently, typically twice daily, either in capsule or tincture form for optimal results.
When can I expect to see results?
Improvements in menopausal symptoms, like hot flashes, can usually be expected within a few weeks to a few months of starting black cohosh treatment.
Does black cohosh interact with other medications?
There have been no significant drug interactions reported, but consulting with a healthcare provider prior to use is advisable, especially if on other medications.
Does black cohosh act like estrogen?
No, black cohosh does not activate estrogen receptors. It works primarily through the opioid system and exhibits anti-inflammatory effects.
Research Sources
- https://www.fammed.wisc.edu/files/webfm-uploads/documents/outreach/im/ss_black_cohosh.pdf – This systematic review synthesizes data from various clinical trials, highlighting black cohosh's efficacy in reducing menopausal symptoms without affecting hormone levels. It emphasizes the importance of larger dosages and combination therapy for enhanced benefits.
- https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/hp/black-cohosh-pdq – This source discusses the potential safety of black cohosh, especially in breast cancer patients, presenting evidence that its use was associated with a lower risk of breast cancer recurrence, thus indicating that it may be safe for survivors.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33021111/ – A randomized controlled trial investigating bone turnover markers associated with black cohosh showed positive changes indicating beneficial effects on bone health among menopausal women, thus expanding its potential health benefits.
Supplements Containing Black Cohosh Rhizome Extract
Menopause SAP
NFH
Ultra Menoease with BioResponse DIM
Douglas Laboratories
Complete Balance - AM Formula
Natrol
Menopause Relief
Vimerson Health
Female X Booster
Douglas Laboratories
WELLARAY TURMERIC + PROBIOTIC IMPROVED WITH MACA EXTRACT
Wellaray