Evidence supporting the use of: Cohosh
For the health condition: Menstrual Irregularity

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Synopsis

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

Cohosh, particularly Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa, formerly Cimicifuga racemosa), has a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially among Native American and European herbalists, for managing various women’s health concerns, including menstrual irregularities. Its use is based primarily on anecdotal evidence and centuries of empirical application rather than rigorous scientific validation. Traditional uses include alleviating symptoms such as irregular periods, menstrual cramps, and menopausal complaints. The purported mechanism is believed to involve phytoestrogenic or hormone-modulating effects, though this remains speculative.

Scientific studies have mostly focused on black cohosh’s role in menopausal symptoms (especially hot flashes), with limited and inconsistent data regarding its efficacy in treating menstrual irregularity. Systematic reviews and clinical trials have not provided strong or consistent evidence to support its use for menstrual irregularities specifically. The active compounds in black cohosh, such as triterpene glycosides, have not been conclusively shown to influence menstrual cycles in humans. Current clinical guidelines do not recommend black cohosh as a first-line treatment for menstrual irregularity, and its use remains largely within the realm of traditional herbal medicine. More research is needed to clarify its safety and effectiveness for this indication.

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Products containing cohosh

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