What is Remifemin?
Remifemin, an extract of black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa), is the most studied form of black cohosh, a dietary supplement used in the management of pre-menopause and menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes (or “flushes”), vaginal dryness, night sweats, mood swings, irritability, and related occasional sleeplessness.
Remifemin was first introduced to the U.S. market in 1995 by Enzymatic Therapy, Inc., the sole distributors of the product in North America.
Since serious health concerns have been raised about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), Remifemin with its primary natural ingredient -- black cohosh (see Black Cohosh below) -- is becoming increasingly popular in battling everything from hot flashes to sleeplessness.
Known for the proliferation of clinical studies and some heavy-hitting endorsements (see Research below), Remifemin has been widely used in Europe with some positive results.
The company itself claims their unique formula not only diminishes the menopause symptoms, but also boasts being “estrogen (see Risks below)
and hormone-free without plant-based estrogens that can affect breast and uterine cell growth.”
There is some argument about whether or not Remifemin can be safely used by women with a history of breast cancer because all black cohoshes (see Black Cohosh below) are not the same. The guidance of a knowledgable health practitioner is recommended.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is the main herbal ingredient in Remifemin.
Black cohosh is a natural herb found in the United States, often used to treat pre-menopause and menopause symptoms.
Native Americans are said to have used black cohosh to treat women's maladies, specifically related to menstruation and menopause. Along with menstrual cramps and hot flashes, black cohosh was also used to treat arthritis, muscle pain, sore throat, cough and indigestion.
In fact, in Europe black cohosh has been widely used for decades and is approved in some countries for painful menstruation, premenstrual discomfort, pre-menopause (perimenopause), and menopausal symptoms.
But, not all black cohoshes are the same. According to Sloan Kettering Memorial Hospital, “More research is needed. It is not clear if black cohosh is beneficial for menopausal symptoms due to conflicting results from various studies. There is not enough evidence to support its anticancer effects in humans. Patients should use caution as liver failure has been reported from its use.”
Risks of Black Cohosh
You should not use black cohosh if you have a history of breast cancer or a high risk of it without talking with a health professional. Pregnant and breastfeeding mothers are advised to avoid using this black cohosh because it can reportedly lead to contractions and premature labor.
Here is what other people say about Remifemin:
Embracing menopauseCoolum & North Shore NewsJean tried Hormone Replacement Therapy patches before discovering that Remifemin worked for her. "It's different for every woman and it's an adjustment for the family as well," she said. Regular exerci ...
Mad to the max - The Australian (blog)
Mad to the maxThe Australian (blog)ARRESTINGLY candid language as used in a pharmacy window poster for menopause treatment Remifemin, starring comedian Jean Kittson: "Once you get over the wild mood swings, the hot flushes and the desperate fear of o ...
Julia Parker - Remifemin Commercial
My Remifemin commercial.
The Research on Remifemin
The research on Remifemin is significant and appears to be reassuring. The company claims “Remifemin(R) black cohosh extract, the most extensively researched, non-prescription menopausal therapy has been found to safely and effectively reduce hot flashes, night sweats and irritability.”
There are numerous studies and reports which show not only an impact on reducing the symptoms of menopause, but also in lowering the risk of breast cancer. If you are unsure about these risks, you should talk with your doctor.
A study published in the International Journal of Cancer: 120, 1523-1528 (2007), has declared “This proprietary herbal product lowers the risk of breast cancer by as much as 60% ” more than the women who did not use these supplements.
Enzymatic Therapy, Inc. offers that “over 90 research papers, 15 published studies and 50 years of usage by women worldwide show that Remifemin black cohosh is effective for alleviating menopausal symptoms including hot flashes, night sweats and occasional mood swings.”
