Found across North America, from Ontario to Georgia and out to Arkansas and Missouri, Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga Racemosa) grows in wooded areas and has been used by Native Americans for centuries for its medicinal properties. The plant has positive effects when used as an analgesic, sedative or anti-inflammatory. It has even become a part of many daily dietary supplements.

But the plant has many more implications for women suffering from the symptoms of menopause. In the United States alone, more than 41 million women achieve menopause each year, suffering light to severe symptoms such as migraine headaches, black-outs, nausea, insomnia, changes in mood, memory problems and loss, fatigue, hot flashes and night sweats, among many other symptoms.

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga Racemosa) is reported to help in the reduction of the symptoms and is an incredibly popular alternative to more traditional menopausal medications such as hormone replacement therapies and SSRI medications. Some studies show Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga Racemosa) to be successful at improving or even eliminating symptoms of menopause for up to six months.

However, studies regarding the use of this plant for treating menopause and other human ailments are not conclusive and the safety of continued use past six months is even more sketchy than use for six months or less. All use of herbal medicines should be done under the care of a licensed physician, especially those which have not been concluded to be safe.

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga Racemosa), just like any other herbal remedy or standard medication can have an effect on the way your body and your mind works and there are many side effects and risks that may be associated with the use of this plant for medicinal purposes.

Although human tests have been scarce, tests on lab mice have indicated that metastasis from the breast to the lungs in pre-existing breast cancer may be increased with use of this medicinal plant.

In addition, use of the plant for medicinal purposes may lead to liver damage, dizziness, headaches, seizures, diarrhea, nausea, sweating, vomiting, low blood pressure, constipation, slowed heartbeat and weight problems.

Other side effects of using this particular plant for medicinal purposes may be related to its harvest. Since the plant is harvested solely in the wild and is continuously exposed to other potentially harmful plant life, use should always be supervised.

Aside from having many side effects and potential risks, Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga Racemosa) does have benefits for women who suffer from osteoporosis both related and not related to menopause and its symptoms. The plant contains many organic compounds such as triterpene glycosides that may reduce, although not reverse, bone loss, like in osteoporosis by blocking the processes that cause it.

While Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga Racemosa) is a beautiful plant with many potential benefits for women suffering the symptoms of menopause, it is important to consider all options and go with the safest choice—one that can be properly monitored by a licensed and knowledgeable physician.