What Is Black Cohosh?
Black cohosh, a flowering plant native to North America, has long been used in herbal medicine, especially by Indigenous communities and early American herbalists. Though it resembles other wildflowers, its root is where the magic happens.1 This part of the plant contains compounds that have been researched for their effects on menopause symptoms, with promising results for combating hot flashes.1,2
Despite its long history, modern science has only begun to unravel how black cohosh interacts with the body in recent decades, providing new insights into its potential benefits. It’s this blend of time-tested tradition and evolving research that makes black cohosh so compelling today.
Black Cohosh for Hot Flashes
Menopause symptoms can be disruptive. From irregular sleep patterns to temperature spikes, many women are looking for non-hormonal solutions to ease the health issues caused by menopause. Not all treatments work equally for everyone, but black cohosh offers an appealing alternative or addition to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women seeking more support (or those who cannot/prefer not to use hormonal support).
To understand hot flashes, it’s first essential to dive in to the science behind them. The vasomotor symptoms from menopause are triggered by changes in your hypothalamus, the part of your brain that helps regulate body temperature. When estrogen levels drop, the hypothalamus can become more sensitive, leading to sudden feelings of heat or excessive sweating.3 One study found that black cohosh significantly reduced hot flash frequency and severity, making it a compelling ingredient for those navigating menopause.2
Black Cohosh and Other Menopause Symptoms
While black cohosh doesn't contain estrogen—which could help counteract the loss of the hormone caused by menopause—studies show it binds to the body’s opioid receptors, one of the same pathways involved in regulating temperature and mood.4 This could explain why black cohosh supplements are often linked to reductions in muscle aches associated with menopause.1
Beyond physical symptoms, menopause often brings emotional challenges such as depression which black cohosh may reduce.1 While more research is needed, this dual effect on both body and mind makes black cohosh especially valuable as a holistic menopause supplement.*
So, black cohosh may help relieve the following menopause symptoms*:
- Fatigue
- Hot flashes
- Muscle aches
- Mood issues
- Depression
- Anxiety1,2,4
Black Cohosh in Menopause Supplements
Because black cohosh has been long lauded as a difference-maker in menopause symptoms, it’s a featured player in our MENO Menopause Relief Gummies and Capsules—formulated to help ease hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings, without synthetic hormones.* Our formulations combine black cohosh with other natural ingredients known to support hormonal balance and overall health during menopause. This synergy amplifies the benefits, providing comprehensive relief that targets multiple symptoms at once. Whether you're experiencing early signs of perimenopause or are deep into postmenopause, MENO is designed to work with your body to restore health both mentally and physically.*
How to Use Black Cohosh
Like any supplement, black cohosh is most effective when used consistently and correctly–and with the guidance of your healthcare provider. Experts typically recommend starting with a standard dose in a formulation that lists the amount of black cohosh per serving, which our supplements are carefully formulated to include.
While black cohosh is generally well-tolerated, it’s still important to talk to your healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement, especially if you have a liver condition, take medications, or are managing other health concerns.1
MENO Gummies and Capsules can help remove the guesswork of dosing specific ingredients, delivering an optimal amount of black cohosh alongside complementary ingredients for holistic support.* Think of it as one less thing to track and one more way to live a healthier life.
Results from black cohosh can vary from person to person, and relief may come gradually with symptoms improving over time. The key is patience and consistency as natural supplements like black cohosh are designed to support your body gently, not overnight. Pairing it with lifestyle habits like exercise, hydration, and balanced nutrition can also help ease menopause symptoms overall.5 With the right support, menopause doesn’t have to feel overwhelming, it can be a time of renewal and empowerment.
Black cohosh may not be new, but it’s worth your attention. If you’re looking for a natural way to manage hot flashes, night sweats, and other common symptoms, this botanical could be a powerful ally.*
