Evidence supporting the use of: Black cohosh
For the health condition: Afterbirth Pain

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa, formerly Cimicifuga racemosa) has a long history of traditional use in supporting women's reproductive health, particularly among Native American tribes and later by European settlers in North America. One of its traditional uses includes alleviating afterbirth pain (postpartum uterine cramping), as well as menstrual discomfort and symptoms of menopause. The rationale stems from its reputed antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which were believed to help ease uterine contractions and discomfort following childbirth.

Despite its popular use in folk medicine, scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of black cohosh specifically for afterbirth pain is limited. Most modern research has focused on its potential benefits for menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, with mixed results. There are very few clinical studies examining its use for postpartum pain or uterine cramping. Its traditional use is, therefore, maintained more by historical precedent than by robust clinical validation.

In summary, while black cohosh is traditionally used for afterbirth pain and other gynecological complaints, current scientific support for this application is weak. The evidence rating is 2/5, reflecting its widespread historical use but limited modern research directly addressing afterbirth pain.

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