Evidence supporting the use of: Black cohosh
For the health condition: PMS Type S

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) has a long history of traditional use by Native Americans and later by European settlers, primarily as a remedy for women’s reproductive health issues. It has most commonly been used for menopausal symptoms, but there is also some traditional use for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), especially PMS Type S, which is characterized by symptoms such as swelling, bloating, and breast tenderness—symptoms linked to water retention and hormonal fluctuations. The traditional rationale for its use is based on black cohosh’s reputed ability to balance female hormones and reduce symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle.

However, scientific evidence supporting black cohosh specifically for PMS Type S is limited. Most clinical studies focus on its effects in menopause, particularly for hot flashes and mood changes, rather than PMS or premenstrual water retention. A few small studies and anecdotal reports suggest some benefit in premenstrual symptoms, possibly due to weak estrogenic or anti-inflammatory effects, but there is insufficient high-quality evidence to confirm its efficacy for PMS Type S. Therefore, its use for this purpose is best characterized as traditional, with a low to moderate evidence rating.

In summary, black cohosh’s application for PMS Type S is grounded primarily in traditional herbal medicine rather than robust scientific validation. Anyone considering its use should consult a healthcare provider, particularly due to potential interactions and side effects.

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