Evidence supporting the use of: Cohosh
For the health condition: PMS (general)

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Synopsis

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

Cohosh, particularly Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa, formerly Cimicifuga racemosa), has a long history of traditional use for women’s health concerns, including symptoms associated with PMS (premenstrual syndrome) and menopause. Native American and early European herbal medicine used Black Cohosh for a variety of gynecological issues, such as menstrual irregularities and symptoms like cramping, irritability, and mood swings. The rationale for its use was based on observed effects and empirical tradition rather than scientific understanding of its mechanisms.

Modern scientific evaluation of Black Cohosh has primarily focused on menopausal symptoms (such as hot flashes), rather than PMS specifically. Most clinical studies have not directly investigated its efficacy for PMS, and available evidence for this use is limited and of low quality. Some small trials and case reports suggest potential benefits on mood and physical symptoms, but these results are inconsistent and not robust enough for strong recommendations. Proposed mechanisms include mild estrogenic or serotonergic effects, but these remain speculative. No substantial scientific consensus supports its routine use for PMS.

In summary, while Cohosh is traditionally used for PMS and related symptoms, scientific validation is limited. Its use for PMS remains primarily supported by tradition with modest or anecdotal clinical backing.

More about cohosh
More about PMS (general)

Products containing cohosh

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.