Black Cohosh

The dangers connected with Hormone Replacement Therapy are a prominent point of discussion in the news as of late. These dangers have caused many women to seek natural alternatives to help balance hormones and relieve some of the side effects of the menstrual cycle and menopause.

One herbal option that is receiving a lot of attention is Black Cohosh root, also called Cimicifuga racemosa.

Black Cohosh is primarily for women, although men may also benefit from this herb in proper combination with other ingredients. The Native American peoples boiled the roots and drank it as a tea.

Black Cohosh is beneficial for opening up the blood vessels to help maintain healthy blood circulation. It also has a calming effect in times of increased stress. Black Cohosh receives most of it's attention due to the fact that it can relieve menstrual cramps, help with the unwelcome symptoms of menopause, and most importantly aid in activating the production of estrogen.

Some studies suggest that this herb is useful in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, and in relieving occasional pain (especially in the joints). Modern research reveals it can be beneficial to the heart.

Black Cohosh contains Vitamins A and B5 (Pantothenic Acid), as well as essential fatty acids and natural phosphorus which is important for healthy bones. It works best when it is used in combination with other herbs that enhance it's activity, and can act to moderate some of the potential side-effects.

Black Cohosh should not be taken by women who are pregnant unless under the supervision of a physician who is monitoring their condition. It should be used in small amounts. Overdoses can lead to nausea, vomiting, headache, joint pains, dizziness, depressed heart rate, abdominal pain and visual dimness. This herb should not be used by those who have congestive heart failure.

Black Cohosh is of the many natural products becoming available that offer an alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy. These products offer hope that the uncomfortable and dangerous complications accompanying PMS, the menstrual cycle, and menopause may be reduced or eliminated altogether!

Doctor's Guide To Natural Medicine. Paul Barney, M.D. Woodland Publishing, Inc. Pleasant Grove, UT. (c) 1998.
Earl Mindell's Herb Bible. Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D. Fireside Books, New York, NY. (c) 1992.
Nutrition Almanac. Gayla J. Kirshmann and John D. Kirschmann. McGraw-Hill, New York, NY, (c) 1996.
Prescription For Nutritional Healing. James F. Balch, MD and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. Avery Publishing, Garden City Park NY, (c) 1990.

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