Herb Pharm Black Cohosh

Our assessment

The evidence shows that black cohosh is often used for menopausal symptoms, but the specific data provided here does not include studies or safety information for black cohosh itself. Instead, the only ingredient data available is for calcium. For this product, we must rely on the calcium content as a key active ingredient. Our assessment: calcium is essential for bone health, but you should be aware of its risks and interactions based on the data provided [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a structural foundation for your bones. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it also helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

Data not available for black cohosh specifically. For calcium, the data shows that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High blood and urine calcium levels can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. The total adverse event reports for all supplements in the FDA database is 592,059, but this number is not specific to black cohosh or calcium [FDA data].

Our recommendation

Data not available for black cohosh clinical studies. For calcium, you should take calcium supplements only as needed to meet your daily requirement, and be cautious of interactions with medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Because we lack specific data on this black cohosh product's effects or side effects, we cannot confidently recommend it. Consult your healthcare provider before use.

Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:

• Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
• Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
• % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
• Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
• Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.

Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide