Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is the most popular menopause supplement in North America. D-GRADE for anxiety symptoms (1 study, 28 participants), CRP, blood glucose, cognition, blood flow, and breast density - all showing no effect. Some studies suggest benefits for hot flashes and night sweats, but results are inconsistent and not reflected in graded outcomes. Remifemin is the most studied standardized extract. SAFETY CONCERN: Rare hepatotoxicity cases reported (mechanism unclear). Evidence quality is surprisingly weak given its popularity.
Quick Answer
What it is
Black cohosh is the most popular menopause supplement in North America. D-GRADE for anxiety symptoms (1 study, 28 participants), CRP, blood glucose, cognition, blood flow, and breast density - all showing no effect.
Key findings
- Grade C: Menopausal Symptoms (Breast Cancer)
- Grade D: Anxiety Symptoms (Menopause)
- Grade D: C-Reactive Protein (CRP) (Menopause)
Safety
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Black Cohosh
Quick Facts: Black Cohosh
- Best Evidence:Grade C
- Conditions Studied:8
- Research Outcomes:23
- Key Effect:Breast Cancer
Detailed Outcomes
Evidence by Condition
Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)
Research Citations (19)
Related Supplements
Saffron
8 shared conditions · 390 outcomes
Saffron is a spice with antioxidant properties derived from the flowering plant Crocus sativus. When used as a supplement, saffron seems to be effective at reducing symptoms of depression and possibly anxiety.
Red Clover Extract
7 shared conditions · 102 outcomes
Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a plant in the Fabaceae (legume) family that is a source of isoflavones with estrogen-like effects, similar to soy. Red clover has primarily been researched as a supplement in menopause and might reduce the frequency of hot flashes, but other menopause-related outcomes have been largely inconclusive.
Curcumin
7 shared conditions · 502 outcomes
Curcumin is the primary bioactive substance in turmeric. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can alleviate symptoms of depression as well as improve pain and function in people with osteoarthritis.
Creatine
7 shared conditions · 433 outcomes
Creatine is among the most well-studied and effective supplements for improving exercise performance. It does this mainly by increasing energy availability during high-intensity activity. Creatine may also provide cognitive and mental health benefits in some contexts.
Whey Protein
6 shared conditions · 197 outcomes
Whey protein is one of the two high-quality proteins derived from cow’s milk (casein being the other). Its high digestibility, quick absorption, and well-researched benefits for muscle gain and cardiometabolic health make it a popular protein supplement among athletes and older adults.
Vitamin D
6 shared conditions · 308 outcomes
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our skin synthesizes when exposed to the sun. It benefits us in many ways, from bone health to mood.
Resveratrol
6 shared conditions · 318 outcomes
Resveratrol is a bioactive molecule found in plant sources such as grapes, peanuts, blueberries, and, famously, red wine. Resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit cardiovascular function, glycemic control, and lipid metabolism. Although it’s promoted for lifespan extension, there’s no evidence for this in humans and limited evidence in animals.
DHEA
6 shared conditions · 202 outcomes
DHEA is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands. It’s a precursor to (i.e., is made into) estrogen and testosterone, and can exert weak benefits on its own. As an “antiaging” or performance enhancing supplement, its benefits are inconsistent.