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OtherWeak evidence

Black cohosh

Also known as: Actaea racemosa, Cimicifuga racemosa

Black cohosh is a North American herb whose root is used to ease menopausal symptoms. It does not contain phytoestrogens in the classic sense and its exact mechanism is unknown.

What it is used for

  • hot flushes and sweating in menopause – weak to moderate evidence, reviews are mixed
  • sleep and mood in menopause – weak evidence

Forms and how they differ

standardised root extract (isopropanolic or ethanolic)

best-studied forms

combinations (e.g. with St John's wort, sage)

composition depends on the label; St John's wort interactions apply

When to take it

Once or twice daily with food; the effect is judged after 8–12 weeks.

Pairs well with

Sage, exercise, enough sleep, limiting alcohol and caffeine.

Do not combine / separate

Take care combining with liver-burdening medicines and hormone therapy; consult your doctor.

Watch out for

Not suitable in pregnancy, breastfeeding or with liver disease. After breast cancer or with hormone-sensitive conditions use only after consulting your doctor; if you take medicines, consult your doctor.

Safety

Rare cases of liver injury have been reported; do not exceed the label dose and do not use it for more than 6 months without medical advice. Seek medical help for jaundice, dark urine or fatigue.

Practical tip

If symptoms do not improve after 3 months, it is worth discussing other options with your gynaecologist.

Products containing Black cohosh 1

Black cohosh 80 mgroot extract · 80 mg / capsuleWomen’s healthHormonesSleep
How to read the evidence rating
Strong evidenceModerate evidenceWeak evidenceNo evidence

Strong = several good human studies or official recommendations; moderate = promising but smaller studies; weak = few studies or mixed results; no evidence = claims not confirmed.

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Important notice

This information is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist. We do not give medicine dosages. Supplements are no substitute for a varied diet; if pregnant, breastfeeding, ill or on medication, consult a doctor first.