How Black Cohosh Works

Black cohosh has been used for centuries to treat a range of medical conditions. Many users want to know, what does black cohosh do in the body? Unfortunately, this question has yet to be answered by scientists. However, the properties of black cohosh have been researched and these are described in more detail below.

Black Cohosh Properties

Black cohosh has several properties which make it beneficial as an herbal remedy or supplement. Known for its relaxant qualities and regarded as a mild sedative and an anti-inflammatory, black cohosh can work with the body to sooth swollen or painful joints, as well as ease menstrual pain caused by inflammation. Black cohosh plants also possess diaphoretic, antipyretic, antifungal and antibacterial compounds and can help the body fight infection and disease.

Although medical research questions the theory that phytoestrogens (plant-based estrogens) are present in black cohosh, how this supplement helps to combat menopause symptoms remains unknown.

Keep reading below to learn more about black cohosh, how it effects the body, and its efficacy as a supplement.

How Black Cohosh Works on the Body?

There is some controversy surrounding the way in which black cohosh works inside the body. Until recently, it was thought that black cohosh contained estrogen-like chemicals which acted as a substitute for the body�s own estrogen levels. In turn, this introduction of estrogen would help ease menopausal and menstrual problems. Yet, recent research shows that this theory is unlikely to be true.

A study conducted in 2003 by the University of Illinois, Chicago, found that black cohosh molecules bind to receptors in the human body, including those which regulate body temperature and hot flashes during menopause. By binding to these receptors, black cohosh is able to control body temperature, and relieve night sweats and hot flashes in menopausal women.

This research also dismisses the idea that black cohosh works by introducing plant hormones in the body; the herb was tested for estrogen and was not found to encourage reproductive cell growth, which the body�s own estrogen would do.

Experts are keen to point out that more research needs to be carried out into black cohosh. How the herb responds to receptors and what part of the molecular structure of black cohosh reacts to these receptors is still unknown. Research is still underway at the University of Illinois into black cohosh's effect on the human body.

Now that the way in black cohosh works has been discussed. Click the following link read on to understand the uses of black cohosh.

Conclusions about Black Cohosh

As black cohosh is somewhat a scientific mystery when it comes to treating hormone imbalance, it is important to seek medical advice before embarking on a course of this supplement. There are other, alternative treatments that are just as effective as black cohosh, but without any side effects.

Non-estrogenic herbs, for example, are a great option for treating menopause symptoms. Read more in the following article.