If you are bothered by menopausal symptoms, you may have heard that black cohosh can help. The American Indians knew of the herbs wonderful properties for women generations ago. And now theres new evidence confirming its abilities.
A new study followed postmenopausal women for 12 weeks with a black cohosh preparation. Then the researchers followed them for another 12 weeks without the preparation. The women had significant relief of menopausal symptoms on the black cohosh and reversion to problems after they stopped.
The active compounds in black cohosh are triterpenes. The preparation here was 2.5% triterpenes. Better news is that the researchers looked for unwanted hormone-like effects. They found no estrogen markers in the serum, nor did the product have any estrogen-like effects on cells in breast nipple aspirate fluid. That is like a Pap test for the breast.
If you have hot flashes, consider black cohosh before you consider Premarin, other drugs, or even bio-identical estrogen. Ive been pleased with the product Remifemin over the years. Its widely available in health food stores and on the Internet. Shop for the best price.
Ref: Ruhlen, R.L., J. Haubner, et al. Black cohosh does not exert an estrogenic effect on the breast, Nutr Cancer, 2007; 59(2): 269-77.