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Last Updated on December 7, 2023
Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) is a medicinal herb that is closely related to the buttercups. It was known by many Native American tribes and used as an herbal remedy for various health problems, including rheumatism. These days, black cohosh is still used in traditional medicine — and it’s also used as a phytoestrogen supplement to help ease the symptoms of menopause in women. But what are its most important black cohosh benefits? Read on to find out!
The biggest selling point for black cohosh is its ability to reduce menopause symptoms. If you’re looking for relief, but prefer a natural remedy, black cohosh seems like a good option. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, black cohosh has shown promise in reducing anxiety, hot flashes and night sweats. To get you started on the science behind how this herb works for women with menopausal symptoms, we’ve created this article.
What is Black Cohosh?
Black cohosh — also known as squaw root, papoose root, and bugbane — is a perennial flowering plant native to eastern North America. It is one of the few plants that are part of the Ranunculaceae family. As a member of this family, black cohosh is related to buttercups and columbines
6 Black Cohosh Benefits You need to Know
Reduces menopausal symptoms
As mentioned above, black cohosh has been used to reduce menopausal symptoms especially in women. Most women have supplemented their diets with black cohosh which acts in place of hormone therapy once they start undergoing menopause. Black cohosh contains some levels of estrogen which is said to help reduce these symptoms.
Promotes sleep
Black cohosh is a good remedy for anyone suffering from insomnia or non-restful sleep. It is said to be a natural sedative and this helps to boost restful sleep for a very long time. Also, if you decide to take black cohosh to boost your sleep, then ensure not to take any other medication for the same as it may cause undesirable side effects.
Antispasmodic
Black cohosh has been associated with antispasmodic properties for a very long time and as such, has been used to prevent pains related to cramps and aches. This is so because the herb helps nerves as well as muscles function properly. Black cohosh also contains anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties which make it reliable for muscle strain pain and aches and other similar conditions.
Pain management
The analgesic properties found in black cohosh help manage pain especially in women; menstrual pains and labor contraction pains. It is also used to stimulate weak contractions during labor and to speed up the whole process of childbirth. This way, it helps to reduce any risks that may arise during birth, making the process smooth and easy.
Boosts digestive health
Several researches have shown the ability black cohosh has over the digestive health and has been said to have alternative action properties. Through this property, it can improve nutrient uptake and help efficiently rid waste products in the digestive tract. This way, it can be used to reduce symptoms of the Indigestion Bowel Syndrome e.g. constipation and gastric ulcers and also flatulence, nausea, and bloating, etc.
It has side effects
If you are going to use black cohosh, then you should be aware of the side effects it causes. Experts recommend the usage of the herb to a maximum of 1 year, if used to reduce menopausal symptoms. Some of the most common side effects linked to it include blood clots in the legs, abnormal vaginal discharge, altered blood pressure, irritability, fluid build-up, and possible liver damage among others. So, find out what all its side effects are before opting to take it.
Bottom line
You can use black cohosh to your advantage but first do your research to ensure that you are in a position to consume the herb. Also, dig deeper into research especially when buying your supplements because they can be harmful as they can be helpful.
