Evidence supporting the use of: Black cohosh
For the body system: Vagina

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

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

Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) has a long history of traditional use, particularly by Native American populations, for addressing women’s health concerns, including menopausal symptoms and menstrual irregularities. Its primary use in relation to the vaginal body system is to help alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, such as vaginal dryness and discomfort, which can result from decreased estrogen levels. The plant’s root contains various compounds that are thought to have mild estrogen-like activity, though the exact mechanism remains unclear.

While black cohosh has been traditionally used for female reproductive health, its efficacy is more strongly supported for the relief of hot flashes and mood disturbances rather than direct support for vaginal health. Some clinical studies suggest modest benefits for menopausal symptoms, but evidence specifically for improving vaginal atrophy or dryness is limited and inconsistent. Major health organizations, such as the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH), note that the scientific evidence supporting black cohosh for vaginal symptoms is inconclusive. As a result, while it remains a popular traditional remedy, the clinical backing for its use in supporting the vaginal body system is relatively weak, and more research is needed to substantiate these claims.

More about black cohosh
More about Vagina