Objective
To evaluate the effect of black cohosh root extract (BCRE) on vasomotor symptoms and bone mineral density in postmenopausal women
Method
This prospective randomized clinical trial examined the effects of BCRE on vasomotor symptom, bone mineral density (BMD), and biochemical markers of bone turnover in 90 postmenopausal women. Treatment included BCRE (group I, n=30), 0.625 mg conjugated equine estrogen (CEE) (group II, n=30), and control group (group III, n=30) for 6 months. Kupperman index, BMD and biochemical bone marker were measured at 0, 3 and 6 months after treatment.
Results
Kupperman index decreased significantly at 6 months and 12 months after treatment in group I and II (P < 0.05). BMD of lumbar spine increased significantly after treatment in group I and II (P < 0.05). Urinary deoxypyridinoline decreased significantly at 6 and 12 months after treatment in group I and group II (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
BCRE appears to be an effective alternate to hormone therapy for vasomotor symptom, and it may be especially useful in women with intolerance or contraindication to traditional hormone therapy.
[Korean Journal of Bone Metabolism, 15(2): 155-161, 2008]
