CEA Nursing Practice Exam

Which non-prescription agent may help with hot flashes during menopause?

1. Echinacea

2. Black cohosh

3. Dandelion root

4. St Johns Wort

The correct answer is: Black cohosh

Black cohosh is recognized for its potential in alleviating hot flashes experienced during menopause. This herbal supplement is derived from the roots of the black cohosh plant and has been used traditionally for various health issues, particularly those related to women's health. Clinical studies have shown that black cohosh may help in reducing the frequency and severity of hot flashes, likely due to its phytoestrogenic properties, which can mimic estrogen in the body. Although the exact mechanism isn’t fully understood, it is believed that black cohosh interacts with serotonin receptors, influencing temperature regulation. While other options, such as Echinacea, dandelion root, and St. John's Wort, have their own purported benefits—ranging from immune support to mood enhancement—they are not specifically linked to the management of menopausal symptoms. Echinacea is primarily used to boost immune function, dandelion root is often utilized for digestive issues and detoxification, and St. John's Wort is commonly considered for mild depression and anxiety. Therefore, they do not have the same level of evidence supporting their efficacy in addressing hot flashes as black cohosh does.