Description

Common name: Black Cohosh

Latin Name: Cimicifuga racemosa

Parts used: Root and Rhizomes

Traditional use: Black Cohosh is used mainly to treat women’s problems, especially painful periods and problems associated with the menopause

Constituents: Contains numerous chemical constituents, among them isoflavones which mimic hormonal activity.

Actions: Useful for hot flushes, vaginal dryness, and even the depression sometimes associated with menopause.

Medicinal use: The root is alterative, antidote, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, astringent, cardiotonic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, hypnotic, sedative, tonic and vasodilation. It is traditionally important in the treatment of women’s complaints, acting specifically on the uterus it eases uterine cramps and has been used to help in childbirth.  The root is also hypoglycaemic, sedative and anti-inflammatory Used in conjunction with St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) it is 78% effective in treating hot flushes and other menopausal problems. The root contains salicylic acid, which makes it of value in the treatment of various rheumatic problems – it is particularly effective in the acute stage of rheumatoid arthritis, sciatica and chorea  Its sedative action makes it useful for treating a range of other complaints including tinnitus and high blood pressure The roots are used to make a homeopathic remedy

Cautions: The plant is poisonous in large doses. Large doses irritate nerve centers and may cause abortion. Gastrointestinal disturbances, hypotension, nausea, headaches. Not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Do not take concomitantly with iron.

Dosage & forms: Black Cohosh can be brewed to make a bitter, dark tea that has a wide range of benefits.

Folk-lore: Black Cohosh is a traditional remedy of the North American Indians where it was used mainly to treat women’s problems, especially painful periods and problems associated with the menopause.