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Black Cohosh Benefits, Dosage and Side Effects

Black Cohosh

What is Black Cohosh?

Black cohosh is a flowering plant native to North America. Ancient cultures made use of black cohosh as a remedy for snake bites. Many Native American tribes refer to it as rattlesnake and consider it a cure-all for women’s health. It goes by several other names, including snakeroot, bugwort, rattleroot, rattletop, and Sheng Ma in China.

Here’s a deeper look into how this ancient herb works to keep you healthy:

Black Cohosh Benefits

Antioxidants in Black Cohosh

Pollutants, environmental toxins, UV rays, processed food, even some medicines can lead to oxidative stress. This results in free radical damage in your body. When free radicals enter your cells and damage your DNA, it leads to disease.

As the name suggests, antioxidants fight oxidative damage–and black cohosh is packed with potent antioxidants. This means it could help prevent inflammation and diseases like cancer, and even combat signs of aging (x).

Heart-Healthy

The antioxidants in black cohosh benefit your heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and preventing cell damage (x). Black cohosh also contains long chain fatty acids, which reduce your risk of developing coronary artery disease (x).

Cognitive Support

Some studies suggest black cohosh’s antioxidant properties support cognitive function. It may even reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss (x).

Anti-Aging Skin Benefits

Black cohosh contains isoferulic acid and fukinolic acid. These natural anti-aging serums contain vitamin C and promote collagen production for youthful, healthy skin (x) (x).

Black Cohosh for PMS Relief

If your PMS symptoms are debilitating, black cohosh could help. Scientists gave black cohosh to 80 premenopausal women in a random, placebo-controlled case study. All of the women complained of menstrual cramping, and other physical and psychological discomfort during their menstrual cycle. The study found that women taking a black cohosh supplement noticed a significant reduction in PMS symptoms, including cramping and hot flashes (x). Researchers believe black cohosh reduces PMS pain and cramping and bloating by relieving inflammation. (x)

Black Cohosh for Hormone Therapy

Estrogen is a hormone responsible for many aspects of cell growth in women. Too much estrogen can lead to tumors or cancer. In contrast, low estrogen may lead to infertility, depression and irregular menstrual cycles.

Studies suggest that black cohosh benefits hormonal balance in women by mimicking estrogen. In addition, it can help relieve symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), including hot flashes, cramping, and irregular periods (x).

Because black cohosh mimics hormones, those with breast, uterine, cervical, or ovarian cancer should speak to their doctors before taking it.

Black Cohosh for Inflammation

Inflammation is at the root of many disease and ailments. It’s not inherently bad–in fact, it’s actually the body’s immune response to a wound or illness. But when left unchecked, it can lead to diseases like cancer and rheumatoid arthritis (x).

Preliminary studies suggest that black cohosh acts as an anti-inflammatory, stopping cells that trigger your body’s inflammatory response (x).And because the same cellular pathways that trigger inflammation also set off allergic reactions, black cohosh could help relieve chronic allergies and allergy symptoms (x).

Black Cohosh Side Effects

Because black cohosh acts as an estrogen receptor, it may cause the following side effects:

Other side effects may include stomach upset and weight gain.

If you are pregnant or have a hormone-sensitive condition, speak to a doctor or nutritionist before taking black cohosh.

Black Cohosh Interactions

Black Cohosh Supplements

Generally, black cohosh supplements contain the herb’s roots and stems. Supplements are available as powders, liquids, capsules, tablets, or tinctures.

Black cohosh extract powder is one of the most effective forms of the supplement, as it contains a high concentration of beneficial compounds and antioxidants. As a dietary supplement, take 800 mg (about 1/4 tsp) twice daily, or as directed by your physician.

The Bottom Line

Black cohosh is a powerful plant with potent antioxidant benefits. It helps relieve PMS and menopause symptoms, protects your body from free radical damage, keeps your skin youthful, and may even prevent cognitive decline. And with a wealth of scientific research supporting its benefits, it’s an herbal remedy with a proven history of boosting overall health.

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