Side Effects of Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa)

Black cohosh, scientific name Actaea racemosa, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Ranunculaceae. It is native to North America and is widely grown in herb gardens, especially for its sweet fragrance and therapeutic importance. Black cohosh is being used for treatment of female gynecological problems such as painful menstruation, menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, vaginal dryness) and difficult childbirth. In the 1950s, dietary supplement of black cohosh was used as an alternative remedy for hormone replacement therapy.

According to scientific studies, black cohosh contain glycosides, salicylic acid, isoferulic acid, phytosterin and sugars. In recent times, studies have shown positive results of black cohosh in the treatment of migraine, neuralgia, lowering high blood pressure (hypertension) and slowing the disease progression of osteoporosis. Commercially, dietary supplements prepared from the roots and rhizomes of black cohosh are available in the market. However, in spite of these therapeutic claims of black cohosh, its effectiveness is controversial. The effects of black cohosh in the human body is not clear and more clinical trials are yet to be conducted to evaluate the action of this herb.

Side Effects of Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa)

Though black cohosh is used extensively as a herbal remedy for various diseases, there are certain side effects of this plant. Some of the common complaints after administration of black cohosh are headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, dark-colored urine, stomach discomfort and other gastric problems. Prolonged use of black cohosh may lead to weight gain. Some women complain of allergic reactions (rash, itching, difficulty in breathing) breast tenderness, unexplained vaginal bleeding and heavy pressure in the leg after using black cohosh.

A potential side effect of black cohosh reported by many people is liver disease. Considering this, some countries have regulated the use of black cohosh by warning the manufacturers to add proper labeling to the products that contain this medicinal herb. People with liver problems should not opt for black cohosh supplements without medical supervision.

In addition, there are chances of potential side effects due to contaminants present in black cohosh products. Like other dietary supplements, black cohosh is regulated as foods, but not medications or drugs. There is no standard regulation for preparation of black cohosh products, hence the composition of products may vary from one brand to another. For preventing unpredictable side effects, one should always consider buying from a reliable brand or source.

For safety purpose, black cohosh is recommended for short-term use (at the most six months). It is also to be noted that black cohosh supplements should not replace any prescription drugs. This medicinal herb is not recommended for pregnant women, lactating mothers, women with breast cancer and those with a compromised immune system. There have been cases of postterm baby in women who have administered black cohosh during pregnancy. In order to prevent unwanted health complications, it is always advisable to consult a qualified physician before opting for any dietary supplement based on black cohosh.