Black cohosh
Actaea racemosa
also known as Cimicifuga, Black snakeroot, Bugbane
A North American native woodland herb traditionally used for women's health, particularly the hot flashes and night sweats of menopause.
- Eases menopausal hot flashes
- Eases night sweats
- Mood support during menopause
- Used by Indigenous tribes of eastern North America
- Approved by Commission E for menopausal symptoms
Active in Triterpene glycosides (actein, cimicifugoside), Aromatic acids, Cinnamic acid.
Rare reports of liver injury — discontinue if jaundice or fatigue develops
Avoid in pregnancy — may stimulate uterus
Avoid in nursing
Use caution with hormone-sensitive conditions
Use caution with hepatotoxic drugs
Limit continuous use to 6 months
Works with
Evening primrose
Black cohosh targets hot flashes via central mechanisms; evening primrose GLA targets breast pain and PMS; combined use broadens menopausal symptom coverage.
Red Clover
Black cohosh (serotonergic/dopaminergic action) and red clover (phytoestrogen isoflavones) have complementary mechanisms for menopausal symptom relief.
You might also explore