Western Herbalism

Black Cohosh

Actaea racemosa

Tradition of Use: Western, Native American

Mechanism of Action

Serotonergic activity, possible estrogen receptor modulation, anti-inflammatory

Key Conditions & Uses

Menopause symptoms

PMS

menstrual cramps

arthritis

Preparation

Tincture, capsule

Dosage

20-40mg extract 2x daily (standardized to triterpene glycosides)

Active Compounds

Triterpene glycosides, cimicifugoside, isoferulic acid

Interactions

May interact with hepatotoxic drugs; theoretically with hormone therapy

Contraindications

Liver disease; pregnancy; hormone-sensitive cancers (debated)

Evidence Level & Clinical Notes

Evidence Level:

Good - effective for menopause symptoms

Clinical Notes:

Mechanism unclear (not directly estrogenic); monitor liver function; takes 4-8 weeks

Traditional Chinese Medicine Context

Sheng Ma

Reduces hot flashes and night sweats during menopause

Pattern:Kidney Yin Deficiency with Liver Yang Rising

Conditions This Helps

Menopause (Natural Transition)Rheumatoid Arthritis

Used In These Protocols

Menopause Transition Protocol

View protocol→

Quick Overview

TraditionWestern Herbalism

GBS Score79/100

Key Uses4

Key Points

Evidence-based information

Traditional wisdom

Safety information

Clinical applications

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