Short Term Relief of Menopausal Symptoms

Black Cohosh is the most widely used alternate or adjunct to HRT for the treatment of menopausal symptoms. It was traditionally a Native Indian remedy for menopausal complaints, with active ingredients actein and cimicifugin. Recently, 5 clinical trials reported a significant improvement in hot flashes and mood by menopausal women using Black Cohosh. Black Cohosh appeared to be as effective as 0.625mg of conjugated estrogens for the relief of vasomotor symptoms. Although the exact and complete mechanism of action is unknown, Black Cohosh acts by binding to the estrogen receptors in the body. They exert estrogen like actions in some tissues and anti-estrogenic actions in others. Black Cohosh appears to be a promising herbal product for use of short-term relief of menopausal symptoms. The most commonly reported side effects are nausea and vomiting. It is also contraindicated in pregnancy.