Which herbs may be useful for menopause?

Perimenopausal women may want to supplement with black cohosh, an estrogenic herb that may be effective for perimenopausal symptoms.

First used by Native American Indians, black cohosh has become widely recognized as an effective herb for several women’s health concerns, including perimenopause, PMS, and dysmenorrhea.

Black cohosh root may be taken in capsules or as a tea, in doses of about 300 mg taken three times daily. While the body can tolerate higher doses of black cohosh, it’s better to begin supplementation with the smaller dose and increase gradually until symptoms subside.

Some studies indicate that components of black cohosh mimic estrogen in structure and function, thereby accounting for low estrogen levels. Theoretically, black cohosh may therefore increase the risk for estrogen-related cancers.