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Black Cohosh Root is from a tall perennial herb that grows abundantly in eastern North America. The blackish, cylindrical root of this plant gives this herb its name.

Black cohosh has become famous in recent years as a treatment for menopause. Black cohosh seems to produce an estrogen-like effect that reduces symptoms, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness. Although preliminary evidence is encouraging, the currently available data are not sufficient to support a recommendation on the use of black cohosh for menopausal symptoms.

Many herbalists use black cohosh for PMS symptoms as well.

According to many reports black cohosh reduces major symptoms for many women including:

• anxiety
• irritability
• fluid retention
• breast pain

A National Institutes of Health study says the herb black cohosh won't relieve menopausal symptoms, but ten other studies published in the past four years showed positive results. Mark Blumenthal, PhD, executive director of the American Botanical Council, says, "One study shouldn't negate all of that". Blumenthal says the particular black cohosh extract used in the newest study may be chemically different from the one in the promising studies.

Widely used, black cohosh has been approved by the German government as a safe and effective nonprescription remedy for menopausal symptoms. Native Remedies offers MellowPause. This product helps maintain balanced moods and healthy sleep patterns during menopause. It helps reduce hot flashes and supports hormonal balance during perimenopause and menopause.

Black cohosh usually has not been used for long periods. Black cohosh can cause mild stomach discomfort and headaches among some, but this is rare. Clinical trials comparing estrogens with black cohosh preparations have shown a low incidence of adverse effects associated with black cohosh.

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