Ongoing Debate On The Value Of Black Cohosh For Hot Flashes
The popular herbal treatment black cohosh has been rated a mediocre “C” grade for its effect on menopausal symptoms, according to the Mayo Clinic in a recent website article.
Based on a review of studies from 2002 to 2007, the Mayo Clinic concluded that initial reports on black cohosh suggested the herbal supplement may have effectively countered some menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings and vaginal dryness for perimenopausal or postmenopausal women.
Recent studies have not been so positive. “The current evidence is mixed and more studies are needed to make a strong recommendation” according to the Mayo Clinic website article.
Several research groups in the U.S. and Europe claim that black cohosh is one of the most effective botanical treatments for the relief of hot flashes and mood swings, either alone on in combination with other herbal supplements like St. John’s wort.
Most studies also show that herbal treatments, while beneficial, are not as good as estrogen-based or hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in alleviating the discomforts of menopause.
