Evidence supporting the use of: Cohosh
For the health condition: PMS Type A
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa, formerly Cimicifuga racemosa) has a long history of traditional use by Native American populations and in Western herbal medicine, primarily for the relief of symptoms associated with women's reproductive health, such as menstrual cramps, menopausal symptoms, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). For PMS Type A (characterized by anxiety, irritability, and mood swings), black cohosh has been used with the belief that it exerts an effect on hormonal balance, particularly estrogen modulation. However, the precise mechanism is not fully understood, and its use for PMS remains largely based on anecdotal and traditional practices rather than robust scientific validation.
Scientific studies on black cohosh have focused mainly on menopausal symptoms (such as hot flashes), with inconsistent results and limited investigation into its effects on PMS, especially Type A symptoms. Systematic reviews and clinical trials generally indicate insufficient evidence to conclusively support black cohosh for PMS, and most authoritative sources do not recommend it specifically for this indication. Thus, while black cohosh is used traditionally for PMS Type A, scientific validation is weak, and evidence quality is low.
Other ingredients used for PMS Type A
black cohoshcalcium
chamomile
chaste tree
DIM (diindolylmethane)
dong quai root
magnesium
motherwort
vitamin B6
wild yam
zinc
Agnuside
Cohosh
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by Cohosh
Afterbirth PainAmenorrhea
Breasts (swelling and tenderness)
Dysmenorrhea
Endometriosis
Estrogen (low)
Fibroids (uterine)
Hot Flashes
Menopause
Menstrual Irregularity
Menstruation (scant)
PMS (general)
PMS Type A
PMS Type D
PMS Type H
PMS Type P
PMS Type S
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)
Vaginal Dryness
Vaginitis