Can black cohosh cure vaginal dryness?
Can black cohosh cure vaginal dryness?

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Can black cohosh cure vaginal dryness?

Can black cohosh cure vaginal dryness?

Although it is possible for vaginal dryness to occur at any time in a woman’s life, it is fair more common to be seen during menopause. The reason for this is that, when estrogen levels decrease, moisture levels throughout the body begin to decline.

According to studies, around half of all menopausal women develop vaginal dryness and dealing with it can be a troublesome task. Some of the common symptoms of vaginal dryness include: itching, bleeding during sex, painful intercourse, discomfort, burning, irritation, stinging, urinary frequency and pressure. One of the things that women are sometimes suggested as a cure for vaginal dryness is black cohosh.

What is black cohosh?

Scientifically named as actaea racemosa, black cohosh is a North American native that is found in the east and part of the buttercup family. You can find it in the woodlands and it is the rhizomes and roots of black cohosh that have been used medicinally for many years.

What is the connection between black cohosh and vaginal dryness?

The plant is used for multiple reasons and possesses properties like being a sedative, anti-inflammatory and analgesic. It is used for many menopausal symptoms, like vaginal dryness. It was believed to treat night sweats and hot flashes well but a study found no significant benefit.

For vaginal dryness, however, it is believed to be good over the short-term. The reason for this is that black cohosh is a phytoestrogen and boosts your levels of estrogen but, at the same time, is cuts the body’s response to creating estrogen on its own.

Other remedies for treating your vaginal dryness include:
• Sepia
• Wild yam
• Vitamins
• Dong Quai
• Maca

Alternative cures for vaginal dryness

The loss of estrogen in the body leads to a loss of moisture and a reduction to your vaginal walls that lead to many uncomfortable symptoms. Black cohosh is good, but should only be used for the short-term. Looking at the bigger picture you should: remove caffeine and alcohol, have a healthier diet that’s full of fruits and vegetables, have at least 30 minutes of exercise daily and reduce your stress through numerous ways. For more information click the following link about vaginal dryness and its treatments.

Other Related Articles:
Are there any home remedies recommended for vaginal dryness?
Vaginal dryness: How to choose between cream, lubrication and suppositories
How to use coconut oil to cure vaginal dryness

Sources:
  • "Vaginal Dryness". Mayo Clinic Health Resource. 2007.
  • "Vulvovaginal Symptoms". The Changing Body: Menopause Handbook. www.menopause.org.
  • Love, Susan M.D. Menopause and Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.