Black cohosh to manage menopausal symptoms

Reviewers from the University of Florida, College of Medicine in Jacksonville assessed the evidenced.

First, the details.

• A PubMed search revealed 16 studies eligible for review.

And, the results.

• Many of the studies had conflicting results.
• Several flaws in study design were exposed.
  • Lack of uniformity of the drug preparation used
  • Variable outcome measures
  • No placebo group

The bottom line?
The benefits of black cohosh in the management of climacteric symptoms remain to be proven, according to the authors.

Earlier, Prof. Ernst reviewed the literature and concluded that for treating menopausal symptoms, the value of black cohosh was “uncertain,” and further rigorous trials seem warranted.

12/26/08 18:36 JR