cimicifuga racemosa

Cimicifuga racemosa (commonly known as black cohosh) is a perennial plant native to North America and a member of the buttercup family. The root and rhizome are used in herbal preparations. It is primarily promoted as a dietary supplement for alleviating symptoms associated with menopause—such as hot flashes and sleep disturbances—and has also been used for menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome. Historically used by Native Americans for various ailments including musculoskeletal pain and gynecologic disorders. The mechanism of action is not fully understood; while some constituents bind to estrogen receptors with minimal estrogenic effect (and may even block some effects), other studies suggest central activity possibly involving opioid receptors or serotonin receptor modulation rather than direct hormonal action[2][3][5][7]. Key active compounds include triterpene glycosides (actein, 23-epi-26-deoxyactein), resins (cimicifugin), aromatic acid derivatives (caffeic acid), flavonoids, tannins[4][5]. Black cohosh does not contain phytoestrogens but may have weak estrogen-like effects in certain tissues.

Brand names

Remifemin

Other names

black cohoshActaea racemosablack snakerootmacrotysbugbanebugwortrattlerootrattleweedCimicifugae rhizomafairy candle root