Black Cohosh: The Estrogen Alternative

Are you tired of being haunted by some of “female problems”?  The best solution for that is black cohosh.  But what is black cohosh?

Black cohosh  (Cimicifuga racemosa) is a particular herb that for generations has been trusted by American women for its ability to relieve a variety of “female problems” like PMS and menstrual cramps as well as menopausal symptoms.  This medicinal plant got its ability to treat such problems from its gnarled root.  

The black cohosh was provided as the main ingredient in a well-known tonic for women in the year 1990.  In fact, the mixture of black cohosh popularly known as Lydia Pinkham’s Vegetable Compound is still sold; however, it no longer contains the herb. 

As an indigenous American wildflower and a member of the buttercup family, black cohosh has also been applied for generations to treat different complaints caused by insect bites and eczema.

The popularity of black cohosh fell for several decades, but once again, black cohosh is heralded as an herbal remedy for menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.  It is then for such claim that this particular herb is considered as “The Estrogen Alternative”.  Aside from that, the black cohosh has been widely suggested as an option to standard hormone replacement therapy or HRT, which considerably can create unwanted side effects in many women.

But black cohosh is more than just the estrogen alternative.  The obvious healing capabilities of black cohosh root surpass beyond its use for “female problems”.  It is then considered that this herb works as a mild sedative and an anti-inflammatory.  As such, experts have reported that it may provide some relief for muscle aches and pains.  Along with that, the black cohosh is also applied for the purpose of clearing the mucous membranes and reducing the related congestion and bothersome coughs.

Particularly, the black cohosh is used to relieve hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, depression, and other unpleasant menopausal and perimenopausal signs.  It is believed that the black cohosh provides a powerful plant compounds known as phytoestrogens which imitates the hormone’s effects.  With such compounds, the hormone related symptoms will likely to be reduced. 

Black cohosh is also useful for easing menstrual cramps since it contains antispasmodic properties that may lessen such menstrual discomforts.  It is in fact considered that through alleviating the hormone levels, the herb’s powerful compounds called phytoestrogens may even give certain benefits to women with premenstrual syndrome or PMS.

Today, due to its multiple uses and functions, many health food outlets in many areas in the world are offering black cohosh products which usually come in the form of tincture, tablet, dried herb or tea, and capsule.  It is just necessary to know that when buying this herb, look for capsules or tablets with extracts standardized to contain 2.5 percent of the active components in black cohosh root known as triterpenes glycosides and the amount that has proved effective for many women in clinical trials, and 5 percent of such compounds for liquid products.

It is interesting to know then that one can apply black cohosh at any time of day, but in order to lessen the opportunity of stomach upset, taking it with meals is much better.  And to disguise the bitter taste, take it either with lemon or honey.   And for those who have menopausal problems, just take the product and allow up to eight weeks for some benefits.