Hormonal fluctuations during menopause and PMS can seriously interfere with weight loss efforts. As a personal trainer, I have heard several stories where clients raided the refrigerator during PMS, only to regret it the next day. For a women, certain times can make or break weight loss targets. The solution may exist in a natural herb called 'black cohash'. This herb has been known for centuries as a powerful natural medicine. The word 'black' is derived from the colour of the root, and 'cohosh' means 'rough'. The root contains a rich and powerful array of natural chemicals, some as effective as the most modern pharmaceuticals.
So what does it do? What makes it so effective for women trying to lose weight? There are several ways that this herb helps women deal with the symptoms of hormonal change. Black cohash is especially beneficial for women as it has been known to reduce menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes. Some claim that it helps ease menstrual pain and other difficulties, such as premenstrual syndrome.
These beneficial effects enable the user to focus more on weight loss, and minimizes the tendency to cheat or lose track. The user is more relaxed, mentally focussed and pain-free. The herb has been shown to be very effective in assisting weight loss in this indirect manner, in certain women. The effects will vary from one person to another, but tend to be more pronounced in women with marked hormonal fluctuations.
It works as to reduce inflammation and muscle pain. Since it helps relieve muscle spasms, it can alleviate menstrual cramps by increasing blood flow to the uterus and reducing the intensity of uterine contractions. Theoretically, the increase in blood flow to various muscles in the body ccould increase oxygen delivery to the muscles. Since fat burns in the presence of oxygen, it may be possible that increases blood flow leads to more fat burning. This makes it useful during labor and after childbirth. It has also been shown to act as a mild sedative. Owing to its anti-inflammatory capabilities, it is useful in treating nerve-related pain such as sciatica or neuralgia. Generally available in capsule / tablet form, it has also been distributed as a dried herb and in tea.
There are several things to keep in mind if you are considering this herb. It may interfere with hormonal medications (birth control pills or estrogen). Therefore, it must never be combined with hormone medications. Please consult with your doctor before you consider it. This means you must never use black cohosh while pregnant or breast-feeding. High doeses can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, reduced pulse rate, heavy perspiration, and headache.
Across the United States, black cohosh is a popular remedy for hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and other menopausal symptoms. It can be taken at any time of the day, but it is best consumed with meals to minimize the chances of an upset stomach. Many experts recommend a six-month limit on taking black cohosh, though recent studies show that longer use seems to be safe and free of significant side effects.
In summary, black cohash can aid in weight loss efforts by helping women cope better with the symptoms typically associated with hormonal changes.
