Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Black cohosh liver warning

Black cohosh liver warning
Liver failure case highlights need to use black cohosh herbal menopause remedies carefully
 
By Nicky Broyd
WebMD UK Health News
Medically Reviewed by Dr Sheena Meredith
 
30th October 2012 - The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) is reminding people about the risk of liver problems associated with the herbal remedy black cohosh which is used to relieve the symptoms of menopause.

It follows a serious case of liver failure resulting in a liver transplant suspected to have been caused by a herbal product containing black cohosh.

Richard Woodfield, the MHRA’s Head of Herbal Policy, says in a press release: "It is important that people with a history of liver problems do not use black cohosh herbal products."

Black cohosh is the second most popular herbal ingredient in the UK. It's also known as Cimicifuga racemosa, Black snakeroot, Bugbane, Macrotys or Squaw root and it's used for the relief of hot flushes, night sweats, poor sleep, mood changes and irritability.

Some studies have found evidence it does help with menopause symptoms. However, many experts consider the evidence is unclear and more research is needed. The NHS doesn't recommend the use of black cohosh for treating the symptoms of menopause because it may interact with other medications and cause side effects.

Continue Reading....................

No comments:

Post a Comment