What is Black Cohosh?
Black cohosh extract has been gaining a lot of popularity and recognition in recent years for its numerous health benefits. However, Native Indians have known about the power of the black cohosh herb for hundreds of years – and they have used it to treat and cure an astounding array of disease and illnesses. Today, black cohosh supplements are also known as Cimicifuga racemosa and Actaea racemosa. The supplements are widely available, but there are certain things you must know for your good health in order to properly use this herb.
Black Cohosh Benefits
One of the foremost uses of the black cohosh herb today is as a natural menopause treatment. And it has come about with very promising results. Some of the incredible black cohosh benefits you should know about include the following:
- Menopause
- Breast cancer
- Hot flashes
- Mood swings
- Vaginal dryness
- Migraines and headaches
- Perspiration
- Arthritis and osteoporosis
- Heart palpitations, and
- Sleep disturbances
Cimicifuga racemosa has gained considerable attention in particular for the benefits it provides for menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes.
The research backing up black cohosh supplements for menopause symptoms is growing and very promising. To expound on this, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists reported that short term Cimicifuga racemosa and Actaea racemosa use may help women with some menopausal symptoms. When a huge medical body like this makes a statement such as that, you had better listen.
Interestingly, there is also more research findings coming out for the use of black cohosh supplements in men. It's not as well documented as female menopause, but male menopause is certainly a big concern. Natural treatments for prostate cancer and male-pattern baldness are prime areas for new research.
Side Effects of Black Cohosh
With all the positive black cohosh benefits , it may sound too good to be true. But let's be very clear. Cimicifuga racemosa, or any supplements for menopause are not side effect free. You especially want to avoid excessive dosages. When it comes to black cohosh extract it is particularly important to examine the side effects of black cohosh when you are pregnant or considering pregnancy.
You should also be aware that there are similar sounding supplements. For example, blue cohosh and white cohosh. Although they have a similar name, these two herbs are known to be toxic and should never be used in place of black cohosh supplements.
Final Word on Black Cohosh Supplements
In conclusion, black cohosh supplements have many promising benefits, especially when it comes to menopause. However, the side effects and possible drug interactions are definitely areas you should look into before beginning a black cohosh therapy program.