Black Cohosh / Cimicifuga
Actaea racemosa
Black cohosh triterpene glycosides show anti-tumour activity against breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer cells through MAPK pathway inhibition. Most critically, it is the most-evidenced natural remedy for chemotherapy and hormonal-therapy-induced menopause symptoms — hot flushes, night sweats, and insomnia — in breast cancer patients, providing relief without oestrogenic activity.
Medicinal Properties
Cancer Types Studied
Recommended Dosage
40–160 mg standardised black cohosh extract (2.5% triterpenes) daily.
Preparations
Standardised Extract (Remifemin)
40–80 mg standardised black cohosh extract (Remifemin or equivalent) twice daily for menopause symptoms during cancer treatment.
NIH / PubMed Research
Links open on PubMed (National Library of Medicine). Research is ongoing — results may not reflect clinical use.
Cautions & Interactions
- Rare liver toxicity — monitor liver enzymes with long-term use
- Avoid in liver disease
- Discuss with oncologist in ER+ breast cancer (most evidence: non-oestrogenic)
- May interact with tamoxifen
Related Herbs
Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before use.