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Black cohosh: a cause of abnormal postmenopausal liver function tests.
1Locum Consultant Gastroenterologist, Prince Phillip Hospital, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, UK.
Climacteric : the Journal of the International Menopause Society
|January 19, 2008
Summary
Black cohosh, a popular herbal remedy for menopausal symptoms, has been linked to liver damage in two women. Further research is needed to ensure the safety of this widely used natural product.
Area of Science:
- Herbal medicine
- Hepatotoxicity
- Menopause management
Background:
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use is declining due to health concerns.
- Women are increasingly seeking 'natural' alternatives for menopausal symptom relief.
- The safety of many herbal remedies, including black cohosh, remains uncertain.
Observation:
- Two cases of liver toxicity were observed in women using black cohosh.
- Patients presented with symptoms indicative of liver injury after consuming black cohosh supplements.
- No other confounding factors for liver toxicity were identified.
Findings:
- Black cohosh consumption was associated with drug-induced liver injury (DILI) in both cases.
- The severity of liver injury varied, requiring medical intervention.
- Cessation of black cohosh led to improvement in liver function.
Implications:
- Healthcare providers should exercise caution when recommending black cohosh for menopausal symptoms.
- Close monitoring for signs of liver toxicity is crucial in women using black cohosh.
- Further clinical studies are warranted to establish the safety profile and mechanisms of black cohosh-induced hepatotoxicity.
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