The present invention relates to the novel use of an extract from a Cimicifuga species, preferably Cimicifuga racemosa (also termed Actaea racemosa L; black cohosh). In particular, the invention is directed to an extract from Cimicifuga sp., preferably Cimicifuga racemosa, for use in the therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of diabetes, preferably diabetes mellitus type 2, the use of such extracts for preparing a medicament, corresponding pharmaceutical compositions comprising the extract as well as a method for the therapeutic or prophylactic treatment of diabetes, preferably by oral administration of the extract or pharmaceutical composition.