Cimicifuga racemosa (L.) Nutt. in the treatment of vasomotor symptoms of menopause: a review

Introduction: Several studies have shown that preparations based on the rhizomes and roots of black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa (L.) Nutt.) can be useful in alleviating the menopausal symptoms. The aim of this study is to perform an update bibliographic review of the efficacy and safety of black cohosh in the treatment of the vasomotor symptoms of menopause. Method: A review of published articles from January 2005 to March 2021 in the resource search engine of the University of La Laguna, el punto Q". Randomized and controlled clinical trials, which had the key words in the abstract, text or title, in both English and Spanish, were selected. Results: We found 13 trials which met the selection criteria. The studies reviewed showed that the black cohosh preparations (mainly commercial extracts standardized in their content of active ingredients) produced in most of the studies a significant reduction compared to placebo in the vegetative (hot flashes and night sweats) and psychological symptoms of menopause, as well as an improvement in the quality of life. No serious adverse effects were reported at the dose administered. Conclusions: Cimicifuga racemosa extracts can be effective and safe for the treatment of vegetative and psychological symptoms of menopause, being well tolerated. However, more clinical trials with a larger number of patients, more extensive, the use of standardized preparations, as well as similar criteria for inclusion and assessment of symptoms, are necessary to obtain more conclusive data.