News flash: Old threads still provide platform for spammers! To update the picture on black cohosh: this herb gained acceptance in recent years as an alternative medication to treat menopausal symptoms (picking up an endorsement from a major gynecology organization). Then a large clinical trial found that the herb did not provide benefits greater than placebo. Recent studies remain mixed, with this new report (involving a relatively small trial) showing that black cohosh didn't even do as well as placebo in relieving hot flashes and night sweats. On the plus side: testing for measures of brain function found no negative effects of black cohosh (by some measures of mental acuity, supplemental hormones can have detrimental effects). And while there are few reports of liver toxicity with black cohosh, it overall appears to a have a good safety profile.

I have symptoms (same as my mother) of early onset Menopause. At 35 years old I've already suffered the hot flashes and night sweats and irregular menstruation. I've had the symptoms come and go since I was about 30-31 years old. A handful of years ago I suffered a false pregnancy and a Native American woman I knew told me about a combination of Soy Isoflavones and Black Cohosh (capsules) to help regulate my hormone levels. The combination brought my hormone levels back into balance within a matter of days, relieved and eliminated ALL of my pregnancy symptoms. When I started having the menopause symptoms more frequently I tried them again on the theory that if they can regulate hormones from "pregnancy" back to normal then perhaps they would help with menopausal symptoms too. I have since discovered that adding St. John's Wart to the mix also helps with the irritability that goes with it all. I've taken these together for 3 years now. I noticed a change within a matter of 2-4 days when not taken consistently. When taken consistently I have noticed that they tend to reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes and night sweats (if not eliminate altogether for extended periods of time). They also tend to regulate the timing and duration of menstruation to a more consistent schedule as well as reduce cramping, fatigue, mood swings and irritability. I'm sure like with all herbal remedies there may be mixed results for everyone. But I hope the information helps and if you do decide to try it.. I hope it works wonders for you like it did for me. Tricia

Have you tried altitude.com It has some really interesting information about black cohosh. Another site I was looking at, said to harvest the seeds in late September or October. Depends on what zone you live in. I'm just getting ready for my harvest. I'm going to pick the seeds when they're just beginning to split, as another site suggested. I have an area where I can grow a nice patch. Some seeds may not grow the first year, but the site claims the second year they will, depending on the viability of the seed. If your looking to grow more plants, it seems the best method is to dig up the plant and divide the plant, making sure you get a rhizome. Happy propagation! Liam

I would get a racing heart rate when I took Black Cohosh and I am allergic to soy, so my doctor suggested ground flax seed and that has helped me tremendously with all of my menopausal issues, plus has lowered my ldl 80 points. I take 4 tbls daily. Flax seed oil is not as beneficial as the seed. It is a phytoestrogen so it's best to check with your doctor if you are estrogen sensitive. When my grandmother was going through menopause in the late 1950's, early 60's, I remember her grinding flax seed everyday and she would comment to my grandfather how it kept her from getting too hot. I was only 5 at the time so I didn't have a clue as to what she meant lol.