Black cohosh study under way

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Black cohosh study under way

Wednesday, May 26, 2004

COLUMBIA, Mo., May 26, 2004 (United Press International via COMTEX) --

Missouri researchers are enrolling women in a trial of black cohosh, a

common herb that more than 10 million U.S. women use to ease menopausal

symptoms.

" There is a lot that is unknown about black cohosh, " Ed Sauter, a University

of Missouri surgery professor who is using National Institutes of Health

funds to conduct the study, said Wednesday.

The purpose of the trial is to empirically gauge the effectiveness of the

herb.

Sauter and his colleagues are enrolling women who are experiencing

menopausal symptoms, have had their last period six months ago or longer (or

have undergone hysterectomy with removal of both ovaries), and currently are

not be taking hormone replacement therapy or be willing to stop the

treatment before joining the study.

Participants in the study will ingest capsules containing a carefully

analyzed preparation of black cohosh extract which is known to contain a

consistent concentration of ingredients, for 12 weeks.

Blood and breast fluid will be collected to determine the effects of black

cohosh on the body as a whole and specifically on the breast. The breast

fluid will be collected with a breast pump similar to what is used by

nursing women.