You may use black cohosh for hot flashes by either taking the herb in tablet, capsule, tincture, or liquid form on a daily basis. Dosages for each form may vary and, in some cases, several doses may be needed over the course of a day for optimal effectiveness. You may also use black cohosh in tea by boiling the root of the plant at home and drinking it daily.
For centuries, women have used black cohosh to treat hot flashes associated with menopause symptoms. Many health experts who have studied the effects of this plant for hot flash relief agree that it is helpful as a natural, alternative medicine for women experiencing the physical symptoms of hormonal changes, such as hot flashes and night sweats. This herb was originally an ancient Native American remedy, but it has since been used in recent years in other cultures around the world for effective hot flash relief.
If you choose to take black cohosh in tablet form, be sure to take at least 40 milligrams per day. You may take up to 80 milligrams, which is the highest recommended dosage for hot flash relief, but you should never exceed this amount. If you ever experience side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, headaches or abdominal pain, you may be taking too much or you may be experiencing a toxic effect to the plant itself.
You may also take the herb in the form of a tea up to three times per day. This may not have the same impact as taking it in other forms, but it is still deemed effective by many who prefer this method. In order to prepare a black cohosh tea, you will need to boil the dried root of the plant in hot water for approximately 30 minutes before straining the remaining contents and allowing the tea to cool.
If you prefer another, more effective method, try taking black cohosh by preparing a tincture. In order to do so, you will need to find a fresh source of the black cohosh root, a dark glass bottle to store your tincture in, cheesecloth for straining the solution, and either vodka or brandy. For exact instructions on preparing a tincture for black cohosh for hot flashes, consult a reputable herbal website or a local herbalist.