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Black cohosh has been used for several centuries by Native American groups to treat a number of women's conditions arising from labor, the menopause and menstruation. Although the extract from the root and rhizome of this species of buttercup has been accepted in Germany to treat such conditions as menstrual pains and cramps and psychological and physical menopausal symptoms (anxiety, sleeplessness, vaginal dryness, hot flashes), tests carried out in the USA have had mixed results and the substance is currently marketed as a dietary supplement and not as a drug.

The active constituents relating to these treatments are phytoestrogens (plant estrogens) that act in a similar fashion to estrogen. Fukinolic acid is one of these, other active substances include caffeic acid, isoferulic acid, triterpene glycosides and some resins that include cimicifugin, found only in black cohosh and used as an antispasmodic and a nerve tonic. Each of these has known properties, so the claimed benefits of black cohosh have at least a biochemical basis that should ultimately be proved beyond doubt.

For now, however, more evidence is need although many that use it for these conditions described above continue to use it. It may be your answer if you still suffer from menstrual or menopausal problems.

The health benefits of black cohosh in women are as follows:

Black cohosh is one of the best herbal remedies for PMS and relieves menstrual cramps, bloating, water gains, and headaches that accompany a monthly period.

It is widely known that the herb is very helpful for females with serious menopausal side effects such as mood swings, hot flashes, headaches, night sweats, heart palpitations, depression, sleep problems, and dryness.

Black cohosh is beneficial for female fertility as it has an estrogen-like impact on the female body, resulting in better ovulation and increasing chances of fertilization. It can be taken by couples to further boost their chances of pregnancy.

The herb is also beneficial for PCOS, which is a complex endocrine condition with many hard-to-treat symptoms. It helps to regulate ovulation and generally has a positive effect on the female reproductive system.

Black cohosh is also used to induce labor. It enhances the body's ability to produce oxytocin, which ripens the cervix and prepares it for labor and delivery. Thus, this herb should only be prescribed by a natural obstetrician or highly-trained midwife after determining whether or not you are really ready for labor and only need a little push to avoid some post-term labor complications.