Black Cohosh is used primarily to relieve PMS, menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms. Black Cohosh extract has also been used to treat a variety of other complaints, including insect bites and eczema.
Thought to work as an anti-inflammatory and mild sedative, Black Cohosh root may relieve muscle aches and pains. It has also been used to clear mucous membranes and lessen associated congestion and bothersome coughs.
As oestrogen levels decline in a woman’s body during middle age, she may experience hot flashes, vaginal dryness, depression, and other unpleasant symptoms. Black cohosh may offset this decline in estrogen by providing powerful plant compounds called phytoestrogens that mimic the hormone’s effects. These phytoestrogens bind to hormone receptors in the uterus, breast, and other parts of the body, possibly lessening hot flashes, vaginal dryness, headache, dizziness, depressive mood, and other hormone-related symptoms as a result.

Black Colosh - HRT alternative
Some women take black cohosh as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy. Unlike HRT, which has been linked to a slightly increased risk of breast cancer when taken long-term, black cohosh doesn’t appear to stimulate the growth of breast tumors. Some researchers even think the phytoestrogens might prevent tumor growth by keeping the body’s own estrogen from locking onto breast cells. Keep in mind, however, that the phytoestrogens in black cohosh will not offer the protection from heart disease or osteoporosis that HRT can provide.

Black cohosh has antispasmodic properties that may lessen menstrual discomforts. In addition, by possibly increasing blood flow to the uterus, it may reduce the intensity of cramping.