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Black
Cohosh
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| Parts
Used Roots
and rhizomes |
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| Common
Uses |
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The German
Commission E Monographs found Black Cohosh to be effective in
helping relieve the symptoms of PMS, menstrual cramps and
nervous conditions related to menopause. Some studies suggest
that the beneficial effects of Black Cohosh are not immediate
and can take up to four weeks to reach a maximum. |
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Herbalists also
recommend it as a diuretic, an astringent, a cough suppressant
and to relieve diarrhea |
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Helps to relieve
panic attacks and other nervous conditions |
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| Side
Effects Occasional
stomach upsets have been reported while taking Black Cohosh. No other
contraindications are known at this time. |
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| Safety
Issues Black Cohosh should not be
taken if you are pregnant or if you have any type of chronic disease. |
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| The
History of Black Cohosh Black Cohosh
is the roots and rhizome of Cimicifuga racemosa, a forest plant native
to North America. The plant has several common names including black
snakeroot, bugbane, bugwort and rattleweed. |
| Black Cohosh was
first used for medicinal purposes by Native Americans, who valued it
greatly. They made a tea by boiling the root in water. This was taken as
a remedy for a variety of complaints including women's problems,
rheumatism and sore throat. |
| It's popularity
spread as settlers arrived and it was often prescribed by physicians for
all the conditions listed above. |
| Historically one of
Black Cohosh's claims to fame is that it was a principal ingredient of
the famous Lydia Pinkham's Vegetable Compound. |
| In modern times
studies have confirmed it's value for the treatment of several female
complaints, including PMS, menstrual cramps and problems associated with
menopause. |
