Dear menopausal mavens, if you're reading this, chances are you are searching for some natural support in this natural – if not puzzling -- next chapter. One of the most cited herbal remedies comes from a flowering plant called Black Cohosh.

Fans of this natural superhero say it can help alleviate a host of menopausal symptoms, including hot flashes, mood swings, sleep issues, and the dreaded weight gain. What’s more, there is compelling scientific evidence to support these claims.

Today, we'll dive into the benefits of Black Cohosh for menopause, focusing on how it supports hormone balance and metabolism.

 

Menopause 101:

First things first, let's quickly recap what menopause is all about. Menopause is a natural phase in every woman's life, typically occurring in her late 40s to early 50s. It marks the end of her reproductive years, as the ovaries gradually reduce their production of estrogen and progesterone hormones. Buckle up because, for many women, this hormonal shift can trigger a range of symptoms that make life a tad challenging.

 

Black Cohosh: Nature’s Helper

Black Cohosh, also known as Actaea racemosa, is a native North American plant used for centuries by indigenous cultures for various medicinal purposes. In modern times, it has gained popularity as a natural remedy for menopause symptoms, and for good reason.

• Hormone Harmony:

One of the standout benefits of Black Cohosh is its ability to support hormonal balance during menopause. As estrogen levels decline, women often experience a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Black Cohosh contains compounds known as phytoestrogens, which mimic the effects of estrogen in the body without actually being hormones themselves. These phytoestrogens can help alleviate menopause-related symptoms by providing some much-needed hormonal support.

• Hot Flash Relief:

Hot flashes are one of the most notorious menopause symptoms, and anyone who's had one knows they're no fun at all. Black Cohosh has been shown in some studies to reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. While the exact mechanisms aren't fully understood, it's believed that the phytoestrogens in Black Cohosh play a role in regulating the body's temperature control system.

In a study of 80 menopausal women who were experiencing hot flashes, those who were supplemented with 20 milligrams (mg) of Black Cohosh daily for eight weeks reported significantly fewer and less severe hot flashes than before they started the supplement.

• Mood Booster:

Menopause isn't just about physical changes; it can also wreak havoc on your emotions. Mood swings, irritability, and anxiety can become regular visitors during this time. Black Cohosh has the potential to help stabilize your mood by acting on serotonin receptors in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, and Black Cohosh may help promote its balance.

One study investigated the use of herbal supplements for anxiety and depression in menopausal women. Researchers found that supplementing with Black Cohosh was linked to significant improvements in psychological symptoms.

• Sleep Savior:

Sleep disturbances are a common complaint among menopausal women. Night sweats and insomnia can leave you feeling tired and irritable. Black Cohosh's ability to alleviate hot flashes and reduce anxiety may contribute to better sleep quality. By calming those nighttime disturbances, you can enjoy a more restful night's sleep.

There’s some scientific evidence that Black Cohosh can improve sleep. A 2015 study in 42 menopausal women found that supplementing with black cohosh improved sleep duration and quality.

• Metabolism Mojo:

Now, let's talk about another benefit of Black Cohosh during menopause: metabolism support. As we age and hormones shift, many women notice a change in their metabolism. Weight gain becomes more common, and it can feel like those extra pounds are nearly impossible to shed. Black Cohosh may help combat this issue. Some studies suggest it can help maintain a healthy weight during menopause by influencing the body's metabolism and energy expenditure.

 

Incorporating Black Cohosh Into Your Routine

Always check in with a healthcare professional before taking a new supplement. And if you get the green light, opt for a supplement from a company you trust. Zenopause™ from Zenwise® fits the bill.

In addition to high quality Black Cohosh, this formula also includes probiotics, Green Tea Extract and Chromium Picolinate, and Meriva Turmeric. Together these proven ingredients provide natural support for hormone balance and metabolism.†

 

For more advice on finding balance in your life – whatever the stage -- check out our informative and relatable blog page.

 

Interested in other Zenwise® products? We’d love to help. Contact our Customer Service Team, who can answer your questions seven days a week at support@zenwise.com or M-F from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at (800) 940-1972.