Black Cohosh and Menopause

Many women in Europe have been using black cohosh for years as a natural way to treat their menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes. In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recognizes black cohosh as a supplement that can help treat menopausal symptoms and supports its use up to six months.

There are some concerns about using black cohosh for longer than six months as some studies suggest that it could promote endometrial cancer in some women. Some doctors prefer that women who take this supplement also use progesterone as well to help reduce some of the risk. Women who decide to supplement with black cohosh will generally see its full effect by eight weeks. Any women who has had breast cancer or currently is fighting breast cancer should not take black cohosh or any other supplement without their doctor’s express permission.

There are some diet solutions that work well for women who are experiencing hot flashes. It is recommended that women avoid smoking, alcohol, tea, coffee, spicy foods and any drinks with caffeine. It may also be helpful to eat foods rich in soy to help alleviate some of the symptoms like hot flashes. Other supplements women have found to be helpful include wild yam, evening primrose oil, vitamin e, and dong quai. If you are taking any other drugs then you should talk with your doctor before supplementing because there may be some interactions you are unaware of.

If your doctor does not support you supplementing with herbs to treat your menopause symptoms and insists on taking a drug like Premarin then it is a good idea to find another doctor. Menopause is not a disease and strong drugs with side effects like Premarin are not necessary for the vast majority of women. In most cases women are able to handle their symptoms through natural means.

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