Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) vs Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

About

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) is a tall herbaceous perennial, growing up to about 8 ft (2.5 m) with creamy-white flower spikes. Its thick, knobby root has a bitter, acrid taste and a distinctive odor. Native Americans used the root for a variety of conditions, including menstrual cramps, kidney ailments and sore throat; NCCIH says research has focused on menopause symptoms, and there aren't enough reliable data on other uses.

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is a perennial legume about 16 in (40 cm) tall, with trifoliate leaves bearing a white crescent and pink-purple egg-shaped flowerheads. It is rich in isoflavones (phytoestrogens) and is traditionally used for skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis and for whooping cough, while isoflavone extracts are promoted for menopausal symptoms. NCCIH says research hasn't shown conclusive benefits for any health condition, and studies on hot flashes have been inconsistent.

Safety & precautions

Liver: LiverTox describes many reported cases of acute liver injury with products sold as black cohosh, some severe enough to need a liver transplant or to cause death. NCCIH calls these problems rare and says it is uncertain whether black cohosh itself or contaminants were responsible. Stop and contact a clinician if you notice dark urine, fatigue, abdominal pain or yellowing skin or eyes. Pregnancy: MSK advises avoiding black cohosh during pregnancy because it may act as an abortifacient, and NCCIH says it may not be safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Side Effects in Large Doses: May cause headaches, dizziness, central nervous system irritation, nausea, and vomiting. Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: Without professional guidance, avoid it with any hormone-sensitive condition or after breast cancer.

Pregnancy: MSK advises avoiding red clover during pregnancy and breastfeeding, and NCCIH says supplements may be unsafe then. Blood Thinners: MSK says red clover may increase the risk of bleeding in people taking blood thinners such as warfarin, so talk with a healthcare provider first.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.