What is black cohosh?
The use of black cohosh in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted
by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a
primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the
uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health
care providers involved may be advantageous.
Black cohosh is also known as Cimicifuga racemosa, baneberry, bugbane, black snake root,
rattleroot, bugwort, and richweed.
Black cohosh has been used to ease the symptoms of menopause and menstrual discomfort.
Black cohosh has also been used for rheumatism, cough, high cholesterol levels, and hardening of the
arteries.
Black cohosh has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All
potential risks and/or advantages of black cohosh may not be known. Additionally, there are no
regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where
herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs.
Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of
contamination.
Black cohosh may also have uses other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking black cohosh?
Before taking black cohosh, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care professional if you
have allergies (especially to plants), have any medical condition, or if you take other medicines or other
herbal/health supplements. Black cohosh may not be recommended in some situations.
Do not take black cohosh without first talking to your doctor if you have ever been
diagnosed with breast cancer. It is unknown whether black cohosh can stimulate breast cancer cell
growth.
Do not
take black cohosh without first talking to your doctor or health
care provider if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. It is not known whether black cohosh will
harm an unborn baby. Black cohosh has been reported to cause uterine stimulation, and may induce
miscarriage or premature birth in large doses.
Do not
take black cohosh without first talking to your doctor or health
care provider if you are breast-feeding a baby. It is also not known whether black cohosh will harm a
nursing infant.
There is no information available regarding the use of black cohosh by children. Do not give
any herbal/health supplement to a child without first talking to the child's doctor.
How should I take black cohosh?
The use of black cohosh in cultural and traditional settings may differ from concepts accepted
by current Western medicine. When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a
primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the
uses of herbal/health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health
care providers involved may be advantageous.
If you choose to take black cohosh, use it as directed on the package or as directed by your
doctor, pharmacist, or other health care provider.
Standardized extracts, tinctures, and solid formulations of herbal/health supplements may
provide a more reliable dose of the product.
Take the pill forms of black cohosh with a full glass of water.
To ensure the correct dose, measure the liquid forms of black cohosh with a dropper or a
dose-measuring spoon or cup.
Some forms of black cohosh can be brewed to form a tea for drinking.
Do not use different formulations (e.g., tablets, liquids, teas, and others) of black cohosh at
the same time, unless specifically directed to do so by a health care professional. Using different
formulations together increases the risk of an overdose of black cohosh.
Do not confuse black cohosh with blue cohosh, a very different herbal supplement with
potentially damaging effects on the heart.
Store black cohosh as directed on the package. In general, black cohosh should be protected
from light and moisture.
What happens if I miss a dose of black cohosh?
No information is available regarding a missed dose of black cohosh. Consult your doctor,
pharmacist, or health care professional if you require further information.
Where can I get more information about black cohosh?
Your pharmacist has information about black cohosh written for health professionals that you may read.
What are the possible side effects of black cohosh?
Although rare, allergic reactions to black cohosh may occur. Stop taking black cohosh and
seek emergency medical attention if you experience symptoms of a serious allergic reaction including
difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives.
Large doses of black cohosh have been reported to cause
-
nausea,
-
dizziness,
-
seizures,
-
visual disturbances,
-
reduced pulse rate, and
-
increased sweating.
Stomach upset has been reported as a common side effect with the use of
therapeutic doses of black cohosh.
Other side effects may also occur with the use of black cohosh. Tell your doctor, pharmacist,
herbalist, or other healthcare provider about any unusual or bothersome side effect.
What is the most important information I should know about black cohosh?
Do not confuse black cohosh with blue cohosh, a very different herbal supplement with
potentially damaging effects on the heart.
Do not take black cohosh without first talking to your doctor if you have ever been
diagnosed with breast cancer. It is unknown whether black cohosh can stimulate breast cancer cell
growth.
Do not
take black cohosh without first talking to your doctor or health
care provider if you are pregnant or could become pregnant. It is not known whether black cohosh will
harm an unborn baby. Black cohosh has been reported to cause uterine stimulation, and may induce
miscarriage or premature birth in large doses.
Black cohosh has not been evaluated by the FDA for safety, effectiveness, or purity. All
potential risks and/or advantages of black cohosh may not be known. Additionally, there are no
regulated manufacturing standards in place for these compounds. There have been instances where
herbal/health supplements have been sold which were contaminated with toxic metals or other drugs.
Herbal/health supplements should be purchased from a reliable source to minimize the risk of
contamination.
What should I avoid while taking black cohosh?
There are no restrictions on food, beverages, or activity while taking black cohosh, unless
otherwise directed by your health care provider.
What other drugs will affect black cohosh?
Interactions between black cohosh and other prescription or over-the-counter medicines or
herbal/health supplements have not been reported. Talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care
professional before taking black cohosh if you are taking any other medicines or supplements.
What happens if I have an overdose of black cohosh?
