Black Cohosh

Winners Explained

 

SC Quality Benchmark The measure of quality used for Black Cohosh is the provision of a minimum of 4mg Triterpene Glycosides per daily dose. This should be indicated on the packaging of the product.

 

Black Cohosh has been consistently marketed as an aid for the relief of symptoms of menopause, particularly hot flushes and night sweats, but also to reduce mood swings and to help with the mild depression suffered by many menopausal women. It has received more scientific attention for its possible effects on menopausal symptoms than other herbals, but its method of action remains largely unknown.

The majority of studies of its effectiveness in reducing hot flushes have showed good results, with significantly more relief being recorded than the placebo or ‘dummy’ pill.

Most successful trials have incorporated a daily dose of Black Cohosh standardised to contain at least 4mg of Triterpene Glycosides. Observable benefits are usually seen following about 8 weeks of supplementation.

Quality

The apparent quality of the Black Cohosh products reviewed here is very variable, as some products quote the amount of dried root per tablet, while others quote amount of extract. Only two quote the level of Triterpene Glycosides (products from Herb Tech and Superdrug). The Superdrug product has the edge, both in the level of active content and ease of use.

The Black Cohosh product from Kira deserves a mention, as it appears that much of the research data on Black Cohosh has been performed by this brand, it is considered worth a look on this basis alone.

Value range

The value range of the products assessed is based upon cost per daily dose and varies from £0.13 to £0.33.