Review of herbal medicines in gynecology
Dr. Cathi Dennehy from the Department of Clinical Pharmacy at the University of California San Francisco has reviewed the evidence.
I was surprised by her assessment of black cohosh for menopausal symptoms.
Here’s a summary of her findings.
Therapies that carry a higher level of support from randomized controlled trial evidence.
- Black cohosh for menopause.
- Vitamins B1 and E for dysmenorrhea.
- Calcium, vitamin B6, and chasteberry for premenstrual syndrome.
- Chasteberry for cyclic breast tenderness.
Dr. Dennehy concludes, “There were too few trials involving herbs and supplements in infertility to warrant a solid recommendation, but chasteberry, antioxidants, and Fertility Blend (chasteberry; green tea extracts; L-arginine; vitamins E, B6, and B12; folate; iron; magnesium; zinc; and selenium) have some preliminary support.”
2/13/07 19:48 JR