The herb black cohosh has been used by women to treat menopausal symptoms for generations. In the 19th century, black cohosh was used as a diuretic as well as a treatment for many female ailments, including infertility, menopausal symptoms, painful menstruation, gynecological conditions and painful labor. Black cohosh's possible effect on these symptoms may be due to an estrogen component within the herb, although evidence is inconclusive.
Weight Loss o Gain?
Reported side effects of black cohosh include weight gain in addition to headaches and stomach discomfort. Weight gain, in fact, is listed as a common in clinical trials that followed patients who took for up to six months. Weight loss is not a reported side effect of therapy.
Weight Changes During Menopause
Black cohosh may be effective in treating a variety of menopausal conditions, including hot flashes, mood swings and sleeplessness. Because black cohosh is often used to symptoms, its effect on weight may be clouded with physiological changes that occur during normal menopause. Clinical studies have not proven whether black cohosh affects human hormone levels, including estrogen. Reports of improved menopausal symptoms, however, may indicate that black cohosh does offer some degree of hormonal support.
Warnings
The use of black cohosh is not recommended for women with uterine, ovarian or breast cancer or for women suffering endometriosis. Women of childbearing age are also discouraged from taking black cohosh, as studies of its effect on hormones and fetuses are not conclusive.
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