Black Cohosh May Cut Breast Cancer Risk

Women taking supplements of black cohosh may cut their risk of developing breast cancer by more than 50%, suggests an epidemiological study published in the International Journal of Cancer.

Before black cohosh can be recommended as a breast cancer preventative, however, this study needs to be supported by future studies. Historically, black cohosh has been used as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy. The findings of this study present a new avenue of exploration for the herb. Hormone-related supplements, many of which contain phytoestrogens, are widely used to manage menopausal symptoms, but their relationship to breast cancer risk has not yet been thoroughly evaluated.

The researchers used a population-based case-control study consisting of 949 breast cancer cases and 1,524 controls. Demographic information and the use of hormone-related supplements were identified using questionnaires. Researchers found that the use of black cohosh was associated with a 61% reduction in the risk of breast cancer. This risk reduction was also observed for Remifemin, a herbal formulation derived from black cohosh, which was calculated to reduce the risk of breast cancer by 53%.

"Substantial additional research must be undertaken before it can be established that black cohosh, or some compound found in black cohosh, is a breast cancer chemopreventive agent," wrote the researchers. "Furthermore, women may wish to seek guidance from their physician before using these compounds."

Bottom Line: If you are taking black cohosh to relieve the symptoms of menopause, you may also benefit from a decreased risk of breast cancer. We will report on follow up research as it becomes available. Also, if you currently have breast cancer or have a family history of breast cancer, you should consult your physician before taking black cohosh.

Source: Rebbeck, T.R., Troxel, A.B., Norman, S., Bunin, G.R., DeMichele, A., Baumgarten, M., Berlin, M., Schinnar, R., and Strom, B.L. International Journal of Cancer. 2007, 120(7): 1523-1528.

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