Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) vs Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)

Wild Yam (Dioscorea villosa)

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.

Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) is a twining vine growing to about 20 ft (6 m), with heart-shaped leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers. It has traditionally been used for its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties for menopausal symptoms, digestive complaints, muscle spasm, and joint pain; MSK says studies in humans are quite limited and more research is needed.

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.

Overdose: May cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Contrary to Myth: It is not a natural source of progesterone in the human body; the hormone-like compounds do not convert to progesterone internally. General Use: Consult a professional for long-term or high-dose use.

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