An article appearing in the Journal of the American Pharmaceutical Association (40(2):234-242, 2000) took a look at research involving herbs used for women’s health. The author, Mary L. Hardy, MD is medical director, Cedars-Sinai Integrative Medicine Medical Group, Cedars-Sinai Hospital, and associate clinical professor of medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles. According to Dr. Hardy, chaste-tree berry and evening primrose oil may be reasonable alternatives for women suffering with PMS. Dong quai, a Chinese herb, may also be useful, especially when used in preparations using other herbs. The extract of black cohosh root has been shown to be safe and effective for the relief of menopausal symptoms.