Influence of marketed herbal menopause preparations on MCF-7 cell proliferation

The lack of proliferative effects of isopropanolic black cohosh extract on estrogen-sensitive breast cancer cells in vitro suggests a favorable safety profile for use in women with a history of breast cancer. Alternatively, preparations containing red clover, soy, and combinations of various herbal ingredients may induce cell proliferation, suggesting that such herbal preparations should be used with caution in the treatment of menopause symptoms in women at risk for, or with a history of, estrogen-sensitive breast cancer.