Is is safe to add Black Cohash to my daily regimen of HRT to increase my Estrogen levels. I am currently taking Estradiol and Spironolactone.

I know a few women who took it and developed thyroid complications. Apparently, it also may have adverse effects on the liver although the jury is still out on that. Personally and as non-expert, I believe HRT is sufficient on its own. If you are dissatisfied with your results so far and you are being realistic, then either you could go see your doctor and share your concerns or consider seeing another doctor for a second opinion. Herbs aren't necessarily safe because they are natural.

I tried it before when I was trying to do herbals.  I had to take so much to get even a minimal effect that I had daily killer migraine headaches.  It made me feel really bad.

If you are on HRT I think taking black cohosh would at best do nothing at all.  At worst it may block estradiol from your body's receptors.


It is better to be hated for what you are than to be loved for what you are not.
André Gide, Autumn Leaves

Black Cohosh won't do a darn thing for hormone levels in trans women, unfortunatly. It works on the endocrine system, yes, but with no biological estrogen production it won't increase your levels. Additionlly, as it works with biologically female receptors and producers it could throw off your progress

My understanding is having large amounts of plant pytoestogens will block cell receptors for the real estradiol you are taking.

Before HRT I had added a menopause supplement that had a dose of black cohosh in it along with soy isoflavones, to my other herbals I was taking to lower testosterone. For me the herbals must have stopped my T almost completely and I was feeling way off mentally. Taking the menopause supplement helped me feel OK but no where near what just low dose estrodiol is doing today.

I tried that and a number of other herbal and over the counter drugs with zero results and lots of wishful thinking and time wasted or, at best, info added to my learning curve.

Okay, I am convinced. I have stopped taking it! Thank you all for saving me from making a hue mistake.
Love,
Krystina Anne!