Black Cohosh Side Effects, Benefits, and Menopause Symptoms

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, this powerful herb is also known as Cimicifuga racemosa and Actaea racemosa. It is widely available as a supplement, 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 Cimicifuga racemosa 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 Cimicifuga racemosa for menopause symptoms is growing and very promising. To help demonstrate 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 hugely significant medical body like the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists makes a statement such as that, you had better be wise enough listen.

Interestingly, there is also more research literature and findings coming out for the use of Cimicifuga racemosa supplements in men. It's not as well documented as female menopause, but male menopause is certainly a real and valid 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 benefits surrounding Cimicifuga racemosa, it may sound too good to be true. But let's be very clear. It's important to remember that cimicifuga racemosa, or any supplements or medicines for menopause are not free of side effects. When it comes to this natural herb it is still particularly important to examine the side effects when you are pregnant or considering pregnancy.

Additionally, you need to also be aware that there are similar sounding supplements that may be a treacherous cause of confusion. For example, there is both 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 Cimicifuga racemosa and Actaea racemosa. In fact, you will probably want to avoid these two herbs entirely.

Final Word on Black Cohosh Supplements
In conclusion, Cimicifuga racemosa and Actaea racemosa 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 your supplement program.