Black Cohosh, Red Clover Studied for Menopausal Symptom Relief

Black Cohosh, Red Clover Studied for Menopausal Symptom Relief

CHICAGOThe efficacy of black cohosh and red clover in relievingmenopausal symptoms will be researched in a one-year study sponsored by theNational Institutes of Health (NIH) and the National Center for Complementaryand Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), according to Northwestern Memorial Hospital;researchers from Northwestern Memorial will help conduct the study. The studywill also test the safety of black cohosh and red clover when used for anextended period of time.

Subjects will be randomly assigned to receive either black cohosh (128 mg/d),red clover (120 mg/d), placebo or standard hormone therapy (as Prempro 0.6mg/d), an FDA-approved drug. Health effects, quality of life, lipid levels, boneturnover and effects on endometrial tissue in the uterus will be assessed overapproximately 14 study visits, as well as long-term effects and possible risksassociated with the use of black cohosh and red clover.

Many women already use these products [black cohosh and red clover] forthe relief of menopausal symptoms; however, studies have not yet been conductedto show these botanicals should replace hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as thefirst line of treatment for the short-term relief of hot flashes, explainedCate Stika, M.D., chief of the division of obstetrics and gynecology,Northwestern Memorial Hospital and associate professor of medicine atNorthwestern Universitys Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. Thisstudy is particularly important in light of the recent confusion surrounding theuse of HRT.

Many women are asking about alternatives, and we need to be able to provide asolid, evidence-based response. ... Consequently, there are a variety offormulations available and we do not know if these products are truly effectiveor what effect they have on the body, especially with long-term use.