Coagulation activation and fluid retention associated with the use of black cohosh: a case study

Abstract

Black cohosh is one of the most popular herbal therapies for premenstrual discomfort, hot flushes and other climacteric and menopausal symptoms. Most often, it is tolerated well. However, there are some recent reports on serious adverse events, probably associated with this complementary and alternative herbal medicine. We report a case of coagulation activation, fluid retention and transient autoimmune hepatitis most likely triggered by the use of black cohosh. Diagnostic procedures aimed to explain lower leg edema are not uncommon in the age group of women suffering from climacteric and menopausal symptoms. Therefore, black cohosh-induced fluid retention and coagulation activation should be considered in differential diagnosis, especially if thrombosis has been excluded.

Key words:

• BLACK COHOSH
• ACTAEA RACEMOSA
• AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS
• CIMICIFUGA
• COAGULATION ACTIVATION
• COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICATIONS
• PHYTOESTROGENS
• SAFETY

Conflict of interest  Nil.

Source of funding  Nil.