Contraindications

1) Do not use this herb during pregnancy, due to its emmenagogue effect. However it may be used to speed an unusually slow stage of labour.

2) Do not use this herb for nursing mothers, due to its potential toxicity in large doses.

3) This herb is toxic in large doses; symptoms include nausea, vomiting, visual and nervous disturbances, and lowered heart rate.

4) This herb may cause gastric discomfort.

5) Generally do not use this herb long term on its own, as it has some toxic compounds, which prevent oestrogen binding, and several other jobs, (it prevents the D-activation of oestrogen).

Please note that herbal practitioners are advised that they should avoid giving this herb to patients with a previous history of liver disease.

Practitioners noting any adverse event involving this herb should fill in a yellow card (for noting suspected adverse drug reactions)

In the event of an adverse reaction, practitioners should ensure that the patient gets appropriate medical attention e.g. from the patients' GP, providing all relevant information to the GP.

Rare Complications and Preliminary Research on Black Cohosh

Like all Over the Counter herbal medicine companies the MHRA (Department of Health) has instigated a voluntary warning to be given for products containing Black Cohosh. The warning is:

'In rare cases, Black Cohosh may cause liver problems. Consult your doctor if you have already have liver disease or become unwell whilst using this product.

Some of the most common symptoms of liver disorders - jaundice (yellowing of the skin or whites of eyes), dark urine, unusual tiredness and/or weakness, abdominal pain and / or loss of appetite.'

The information contained in these pages is an indication of possible contraindications, but if you are at all concerned about any herb and its suitability for personal use please contact a herbal practitioner in your area or contact us.