Respiratory: Sore throat, cough

Genitourinary: PMS, dysmenorrhea, vaginal dryness, menopausal symptoms/hot flashes - Approved by the German Commission E for these problems. Polycystic ovarian syndrome may decrease the size of fibroids during menopause. 

Musculoskeletal: Rheumatism. Reportedly increases bone density. Helps decrease JOINT pain in osteoarthritis and osteoporosis.

Skin: Acne

Mental Health: Anxiety

Other: Fever

Side Effects: Rash, joint pain, slow heart rate (bradycardia), dizziness, breast tenderness, stomach problems, swelling of extremities, headaches, irritability, manic behavior, psychosis, liver problems, vaginal bleeding

Contraindications: Cancer (hormone-influenced cancers), liver disease, kidney transplant, protein S deficiency, Atorvastatin, Cisplatin, Cytochrome P450 2D6 (certain medications metabolized by the liver), heart disease, risk of blood clots, aspirin sensitivity, endometriosis, fibroids (uterine)

                                                    *   *   *

FORMS: Capsules and tablets, dried root, extracts, and teas.  

Soy isoflavones may be more effective than black cohosh for female/menopausal symptoms.

RECOMMENDED BRANDS

• Nature's Bounty® Black Cohosh - Available in many retail pharmacies

• Oöna™ For Menopause - Available in many retail stores/pharmacies

• Remifemin® Menopause Relief - Available in many retail stores/pharmacies

• Herb Pharm® Ashwagandha - Alcohol free extract - Place order through Fullscripts here

I only recommend herbal and supplement brands that meet high standards for safety, effectiveness, and transparency. I research each product before sharing. Some links—like those to Amazon—are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you buy through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support this free site. Plus, these links often offer discounts, fast shipping, and helpful reviews.

DOSES: As directed

Reported doses - often NOT supported by evidence (reported by various sources (WebMD, RxList, Epocrates, German Commission E, NIH publications and others). Read dosages and instructions carefully when available on the label.

• Menopause symptoms: 8-128 mg/day once daily or 20 mg by mouth every 12 hours

• Menstrual migraines: 25 mg by mouth every 12 hours (may combine with soy)

• Osteoarthritis: 70 mg by mouth daily

• Osteoporosis: 40 mg by mouth daily

• Rheumatoid arthritis: 70 mg by mouth daily

• Sexual dysfunction: 20 mg by mouth daily

*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.