Leaf & Herb · Other

Black Cohosh (Actaea Racemosa)

Provisional Strong Scorebotanical

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Black cohosh contains triterpene glycosides, particularly 23-epi-26-deoxyactein, which interact with estrogen receptors to help regulate hormonal balance. This Native American herb primarily supports menopausal symptom relief and may benefit bone and cardiovascular health.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryLeaf & Herb

GroupOther

Public Score StatusProvisional Strong

Primary Keywordblack cohosh benefits

Black Cohosh (Actaea Racemosa) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports hormonal balance by mimicking estrogen, which can alleviate menopause symptoms like hot flashes. This provides relief and comfort. - May improve bone health by reducing bone loss associated with menopause. This strengthens bones and reduces fracture risk. - Supports cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function and reducing cholesterol levels. This promotes heart health. - May alleviate mood swings and depression by modulating serotonin levels. This enhances emotional well-being. - Contains anti-inflammatory properties that reduce joint pain and stiffness. This supports mobility and comfort. - May enhance sleep quality by reducing night sweats and anxiety. This leads to restful and restorative sleep. - Rich in antioxidants, it protects against oxidative stress, promoting overall health and longevity.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Black Cohosh, derived from the root of the Actaea racemosa plant, is native to North America. The roots are harvested and processed to extract active compounds used for women's health.

“Used by Native American tribes for centuries, Black Cohosh was traditionally employed for women's health and as a remedy for snake bites.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Several RCTs and systematic reviews suggest Black Cohosh may help reduce menopause symptoms, though results vary. More research is needed for conclusive evidence.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Rich in triterpene glycosides that support hormonal health. - Contains flavonoids with antioxidant effects. - Provides isoferulic acid, which supports vascular health.

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Black cohosh's triterpene glycosides, including 23-epi-26-deoxyactein and cimiracemoside A, bind to estrogen receptors (particularly ER-β) and may influence serotonin pathways. The compounds also interact with GABA receptors and may inhibit inflammatory pathways through NF-κB modulation. These mechanisms contribute to its estrogenic and neuromodulatory effects.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Multiple randomized controlled trials with 50-350 participants have shown black cohosh (40-160mg daily) can reduce menopausal hot flashes by 20-50% compared to placebo. A 12-month study of 122 postmenopausal women found improved bone turnover markers with 40mg daily. However, cardiovascular benefits remain preliminary, with most evidence coming from smaller studies lasting 12-24 weeks. Overall evidence is moderate for menopausal symptoms but limited for other claimed benefits.

Also Known As

Actaea racemosaCimicifuga racemosaBlack SnakerootBugbaneRattlerootMacrotysSquawrootFairy Candle

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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