Black Cohosh - Non-Timber Forest Products

Keywords: Clinical studies, physiological actions.
Seidlová-Wuttke, D.; Wuttke, W. 2000. Selective estrogen receptor
modular activity of Cimicifuga racemosa extract: clinical data [Abstract].
Phytomedicine. 7(Suppl. 2): 11.
Discusses the selective estrogen receptor (ER) modulator activity of black
cohosh. Two types of estrogen receptors have been identified: ER-β and ERβ.
Black cohosh has shown beneficial effects in the central nervous system,
bone, and arteries, but no effects on the uterus. The authors suggested that
this indicates that black cohosh may selectively affect one type of estrogen
receptor, though more research is needed to understand the mechanism of
action. Recent studies have suggested that black cohosh may reduce hot
flashes by influencing the hypothalamus, without estrogenic activity.
Keywords: Clinical studies, hot flashes, medicinal uses, physiological
actions.
Shao, Y.; Harris, A.; Wang, M. [and others]. 2000. Triterpene glycosides
from Cimicifuga racemosa. Journal of Natural Products. 63: 905–910.
Reports the discovery of eight new triterpene glycosides in root extracts of
black cohosh.
Keywords: Chemical constituents, clinical studies.
Stefan, H. 1959. An essay on the manifestations and therapy of hormonerelated
female biopathic syndrome. Ringelh Biol Umsch. 10: 149-152;
11: 157-162.
Focuses on the use of black cohosh to treat juvenile menstrual irregularities,
which can be accompanied by psychological symptoms such as mood
swings, depression, and psychological instability. The author found that,
within eight weeks of initiation, this treatment was particularly useful for
restoring regular menstruation after disruptions caused by stress, transitions,
or adjustment to new surroundings. The author concluded that, with its mild
sedative action and hormone-like effect, black cohosh could be effectively
used to treat females with hormone imbalances from pre-puberty to
menopause. This conclusion was based on the study findings that the herb
could induce normal menstruation without being habit-forming or having
other negative side effects with long-term administration.
Keywords: Case studies, medicinal uses, mood, side effects.
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