Synopsis

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

Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) has a long history of use in traditional Native American and European herbal medicine, primarily for women’s health conditions including menstrual irregularity, premenstrual symptoms, and menopausal complaints. Historically, various indigenous groups used the root of black cohosh to address menstrual discomforts, irregular cycles, and other gynecological concerns. The plant was subsequently adopted by 19th-century European and American herbalists for similar purposes.

Despite this traditional usage, scientific validation for its effectiveness specifically in treating menstrual irregularity is limited. Most modern clinical research on black cohosh focuses on its potential benefits for menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and mood disturbances, rather than for irregular menstruation. Some animal and in vitro studies suggest that black cohosh may exert weak estrogenic or selective estrogen receptor modulating effects, which theoretically could influence the menstrual cycle, but data from human clinical trials addressing menstrual irregularity are scarce or inconclusive.

Thus, while black cohosh continues to be used in traditional and integrative medicine for menstrual problems, the scientific evidence supporting its use for this specific indication is weak (rated as 2 out of 5). Most authoritative reviews note that more rigorous clinical trials are needed to clarify its efficacy and safety for menstrual irregularity.

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Products containing black cohosh

Vitabase Active Woman's Multi
Pure Encapsulations Black Cohosh 2.5
Metagenics Black Cohosh Plus®
Metagenics Chasteberry Plus
Designs For Health FemGuard+Balance™
Thorne Meta-Balance
Vitabase Women's Support