The results of a recent study add to the growing body of research that suggests that black cohosh — commonly used to reduce symptoms such as hot flashes in menopausal women — may also help prevent breast cancer.
The study looked at extracts and compounds from black cohosh and related herbal species and found that the anti-cancer benefits seemed to be associated with a compound called triterpene glycoside. Using black cohosh extracts containing 1%, 15% and 27% triterpene glycosides, researchers noted that the inhibition of breast cancer growth was related to the activation of programmed cell death, also known as apoptosis.
These results are in line with the results of previous studies indicating that the growth inhibiting effect of black cohosh extract on breast cancer cells is associated with activation of apoptosis. Researchers concluded that triterpene glycoside, and perhaps similar compounds, may be useful in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer. (Saxe Einbond L, et al. Phytomedicine, published online ahead of print November 5, 2007, doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2007.09.017.)
Although these results are promising, further scientific research is needed to determine whether the herb can be considered a chemopreventative agent.
The Anti-Aging Bottom Line: Breast cancer is the #6 leading cause of death for women in the U.S., and tragically it often affects woman while they are in the prime of their life. While the scientific community is still deciding whether black cohosh is indeed a cancer preventative, overall this herb has many positive benefits to overall women's health, that make it difficult to pass up.
QUICK TIP: Jean Carper reports that overeating sweets may boost your odds of developing breast cancer by nearly 20%. Learn More
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