Black cohosh is an herb used extensively in Europe for treating hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists supports short-term use of black cohosh - up to six months - for treating menopausal symptoms.
Most studies of black cohosh have used the extract known as Remifemin, which is standardized to contain 1 mg of terpene glycosides per 20-mg tablet. The most commonly used dosage of Remifemin is two 20-mg tablets twice daily. Maximum effect usually occurs in four to eight weeks.
An additional concern exists about the safety of black cohosh in long-term use, particularly the possibility that it may increase the risk of development of endometrial cancer. According to American Academy of Family Physicians, some physicians recommend that women using black cohosh supplements on a long-term basis be given a progesterone as well. Another unpublished study showed that black cohosh may spread breast cancer in mice.
Bottom Line: Black Cohosh appears to be effective in treating symptoms of menopause. Do not take black cohosh if have breast cancer.
Other diet solutions for Hot Flashes & Menopause
Avoid the following food items in your diet. Most women found these foods make hot flashes worse.
Tea
Coffee
Alcohol
Caffeine containing soft drinks
Spicy foods
Smoking
Soy
Soy contains phytoestrogens, an estrogen-like substances. In Japan, where soy foods are commonly consumed daily, women are only one-third as likely to report menopausal symptoms as in the United States or Canada. In fact, there is no word in the Japanese language for "hot flashes". However, clinical trials have generally yielded unimpressive results. The safest approach is to incorporate whole soy products such as soy milk or tofu in you diet. Indeed, the North American Menopause Society in 2000 recommended that 40 - 80mg of isoflavones daily may help relieve menopausal symptoms.
Other common supplements for hot flash:
Vitamin E (400 - 800 IU)
Dong Quai
Wild Yam
Evening Primose Oil
Scientific evidence of these supplements for hot flashes is not strong. It's best to discuss with your physician before taking these herbal supplements as they may interact with drugs you are taking.
Black cohosh is an herb used extensively in Europe for treating hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists supports short-term use of black cohosh - up to six months - for treating menopausal symptoms.
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