Black Cohosh Root (Cimicifuga Racemosa)

Traditional Uses: Traditionally used by Native American and European herbalists as a “female regulator” for menstrual cramps, menopausal symptoms (especially hot flashes and night sweats), and as a uterine tonic, and for arthritic and rheumatic pain.
Potential Benefits: May help reduce menopausal symptoms (including hot flashes, mood swings, and night sweats), relieve premenstrual syndrome and dysmenorrhea, and exhibit mild anti-inflammatory and sedative properties.
Warnings: Avoid during pregnancy (may stimulate uterine contractions) and breastfeeding; rare but serious risk of hepatotoxicity (liver damage); may cause gastrointestinal upset, rash, or dizziness; caution with medications metabolized by the liver and in individuals with a history of breast cancer (controversial).