Black cohosh is a shrubby plant native to North America and the root is used in herbal medicine.

Action of Black cohosh

Black cohosh contains many active compounds including icifugosides and isoflavones and so demonstrates many different properties. It acts on the endocrine system and has ‘oestrogen-mimicking’ properties. It is also antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, mildly analgesic and a muscle relaxant.

Black cohosh Uses

Our experts recommend black cohosh for the following disorders:

| Arthritis
| Chondromalacia patellae
| Dysmenorrhoea (painful menstruation)
| Fibroid Degeneration
| Gout
| Irritable Hip
| Menisceal tears
| Myalgia
| Myositis
| Menopause
| Neuritis
| Osteoporosis
| Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
| Whiplash

Other Black cohosh Information

Many herbalists recommend Black cohosh for a variety of females hormonal disorders including premenstrual cramping and breast tenderness. It is also used for muscle cramps and general aches and pains. Black cohosh herbal supplements are available as tablets, capsules or tincture.

Cautions When Using Black cohosh

| Black cohosh should not be used in pregnancy or during lactation
| Generally, there are no side effects or other contra-indications from using Black cohosh herbal supplements.

| Black cohosh should not be used for children under the age of 12, unless advised by a qualified herbalist.

| When this article was written there were no well-known negative drug interactions with Black cohosh.

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