The black cohosh plant, known for its white flowers despite its name, is a widely used dietary supplement for managing menopause symptoms.
Native to North America, black cohosh root and rhizome are commonly used in herbal formulations. Historically valued in Native American medicine, it's believed to offer estrogen-like benefits for vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.
A 2023 meta-analysis of 22 studies showed significant symptom improvement among users. However, side effects include gastrointestinal issues, headaches, and rare but serious liver damage.
People with liver conditions, hormone-sensitive diseases, or those on medication should consult a healthcare provider before use.
Supplement quality varies; look for verification from USP or ConsumerLab.com to ensure authenticity.
Despite its popularity, the FDA does not regulate dietary supplements, highlighting risks of contamination or mislabeling.
[Read: Should You Take Menopause Dietary Supplements? >>]