Are there any side effects from black cohosh?

Black cohosh is generally well tolerated at recommended doses and has been studied and found safe for use up to six consecutive months. Potential side effects include:

• constipation
• intestinal discomfort
• nausea
• vomiting
• irregular heartbeat
• slow heartbeat
• decreased bone mass
• low blood pressure
• damage to muscles
• a heavy feeling in the legs
• weight gain
• malaise (feeling unwell)

High dosages of black cohosh also have been observed to cause dizziness, visual disturbances, sweating and headaches. Herbs and supplements such as black cohosh are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Different brands or batches within the same brand of a supplement may have different strengths, and contamination is possible. Talk to your doctor about using black cohosh and report any adverse effects.