The Reat Truth About Black Cohosh

Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa aka Cimicifuga racemosa) is a medicinal herb native to North America that was used by Native Americans to treat gynecological disorders and other conditions. Today, extracts of black cohosh are a popular treatment for menopausal symptoms.

Compounds in this herb, which is supported by more clinical research than any other natural therapy for menopause, occupy estrogen receptor sites in estrogen-sensitive tissues-helping to reduce hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and other symptoms. In one double-blind study, significant improvements were noted within four weeks of starting on black cohosh and, after six months, a majority of women reported a 70 percent reduction in physical and emotional symptoms.

Exceptionally safe and well tolerated, black cohosh has no liver toxicity, nor does it stimulate breast or uterine tissue growth, so it can be used by women with a history of these cancers. Choose your black cohosh product carefully. A 2006 study found that some contain a related, ineffective Asian herb rather than true black cohosh. The best-studied brand is Remifemin, which was developed in Germany more than 50 years ago. The recommended dose of Rem ifemin is 40 mg per day.

And did you know that exercisings just 30 minutes a day halves the risk of catching a cold in post menopausal women?