Menopause and Black Cohosh

Physiological investigation of a unique extract of black cohosh (Cimicifugae racemosae rhizoma): a 6-month clinical study demonstrates no systemic estrogenic effect.

Article Summary:

The purpose of this study was to confirm that the currently recommended daily dosage of 40 mg of black cohosh extract is efficient and safe. The study also wanted to evaluate a higher dose of the extract to assess its associated physiological effects.

The study used a controlled, randomized, double-blinded parallel group study of both perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. The two groups were treated with two different doses, 39 mg and 127.3 mg, of a black cohosh preparation for 24 weeks. Both efficacy and tolerability were determined by the Kupperman Menopause Index and Self-Rating Depression Scale.

Both perimenopausal and postmenopausal patients tolerated the treatment well.

Menopausal symptoms decreased for both patient groups and regardless of dosage, although the higher dosage had a two percent higher rate of decreasing menopausal symptoms.

The conclusion of the study was that a higher dose of the black cohosh preparation does not make a significant difference. This study suggests that the black cohosh preparation is associated with a decrease in menopausal symptoms without evidence of estrogenlike effects.

Authors:

Liske E, Hanggi W, HennSchaper & Brummer GmbH & Co. KG, Salzgitter, Germany.eicke-von Zepelin HH, Boblitz N, Wustenberg P, Rahlfs VW.

Institution:

Schaper & Brummer GmbH & Co. KG, Salzgitter, Germany.

Country of Publication:

Germany

Source:

Womens Health Gend Based Med. 2002 Mar; 11(2):163-74

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