"No mention of costs, but given the comparison with other medications and acknowledgement of multiple sources to obtain the product, this is a relatively minor concern. The story clearly describes the impact of the therapies on a tangible outcome: the difference in the number of hot flashes or night sweats women in each group had each day. There is no mention of the possible harms of any of the herbal treatments; the statement by a researcher who led the study that they are 'safe' goes unchallenged. Story does a reasonable job of explaining the study that was done, but does not mention whether women knew which group they were in (that is, were they randomly assigned and blinded as to which therapy they received). None noted. The story identifies both the source of funding for the study and the two investigators who are quoted. An expert who was not involved in the study also commented on the findings. Other options for managing hot flashes and night sweats are mentioned, as well as how the role of traditional hormone therapies has shifted in recent years. The story says black cohosh is ""available in pill or liquid form and is sold over the counter in many health food stores and over the Internet."" It's clear from the context that the herbal remedies are not novel approaches. The story does not appear to have relied solely or largely on an a news release, and included input from an independent researcher."
Menopause Study Disputes Herb Treatment