Black Cohosh

What are other names for this remedy?

Scientific and common names: cimicifuga racemosa; black cohosh; baneberry; black snakeroot; bugbane; squawroot; rattle root; snakeroot; squawroot

What is black cohosh?

Black cohosh is a plant that grows up to 8 feet tall with long plumes of white flowers that bloom from June to September. It is called black because the roots are very dark in color. The roots are used in medicines.

What is it used for?

Black cohosh has been used to treat:

• cough
• fever
• insect repellant
• nervous tension
• premenstrual syndrome
• rheumatoid arthritis
• some symptoms of menopause (when monthly periods stop). When used for hot flashes, it may take about a month before symptoms improve.
• sore throat
• upset stomach.

Be aware that uses for natural remedies are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Natural remedies are classified as dietary supplements by the FDA. They are not subject to the same scrutiny and regulations as prescription medicines.

How is it taken?

Black cohosh comes in various oral forms including tablets, liquid extracts (with alcohol), and teas. Follow the directions printed on the product label or given by your health care provider.

What should I watch out for?

Females of childbearing age: Do not take this remedy if you are pregnant. It may cause a miscarriage. Do not breast-feed without your health care provider's approval.

Black cohosh has effects similar to estrogen. Do not use black cohosh if you have a hormone-sensitive condition such as:

• breast cancer
• endometriosis
• ovarian cancer
• uterine cancer
• uterine fibroids.

Do not confuse black cohosh with blue cohosh or white cohosh. They are different plants and have not been proven to be safe or effective.

Remember when taking any natural remedy:

• "Natural" does not always mean safe.
• Natural remedies affect your body and may interact with prescription medicines. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about any natural remedies that you are using or considering.
• Natural products are not standardized. They may have different strengths and effects. Some remedies may be contaminated. Be careful which products you use.
• If your health care provider has not given you specific instructions, follow the directions that come with the package. Do not take more or take it longer than recommended. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist about anything you do not understand.
• If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, get the approval of your health care provider before you take any natural remedy.
• Do not give natural remedies to infants, children, or the elderly without advice from your health care provider.

What are the possible side effects?

Along with its desirable effects, this remedy may cause some unwanted side effects. Some side effects may be very serious. Some side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the remedy. Tell your health care provider if you have any side effects that continue or get worse.

Serious (report these to your health care provider right away): Nausea, vomiting, vision problems, reduced heart rate, breathing problems or tightness in your chest, chest pain, rash, itchy or swollen skin, increased sweating.

Other: Headache, dizziness, cramping, weight gain.

What products might interact with this remedy?

When you take this remedy with prescription medicines, it can change the way this remedy or any of the medicines work. Nonprescription medicines, vitamins, other natural remedies, and certain foods may also interact. Using these products together might cause harmful side effects.

Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, nonprescription, supplements, natural remedies, and vitamins) with you. Be sure that you tell all health care providers who treat you about all the products you are taking.

Keep all natural remedies and medicines out of the reach of children.

The information included here is based on information found in scientific journals, study reports, news releases, and other publications. The author and publisher make no warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy and complete nature of the information. Nothing herein should be interpreted as a recommendation by the author or publisher for the use of any natural remedy.

This advisory includes selected information only and may not include all side effects of this remedy or interactions with other medicines. Ask your health care provider or pharmacist for more information or if you have any questions.