Latin Name
Cimicifuga racemosa

General Description
The knotty black rhizome and root of black cohosh contain substances that act like the female hormone estrogen. A leafy perennial, it is prescribed for several menstrual and menopausal conditions. In Germany, black cohosh is a key ingredient in the three drugs used most often to treat menopausal disorders. Black cohosh also acts as a sedative and is believed to promote urination, dry up discharges of fluid, aid in expelling mucus from the lungs and relieve spasmodic conditions such as the coughs that accompany whooping cough and tuberculosis. Laboratory tests on animals suggest that one of the components of black cohosh, actein, may help in the treatment of high blood pressure.

Target Ailments
Taken internally for:

• Menstrual discomfort, menopausal disorders, premenstrual stress, headache, diarrhea, bleeding gums, spasmodic coughs and high blood pressure.

Applied externally for:

• Sciatica, neuralgia, muscle spasms and rheumatism.

Preparations
Over the counter:
Black cohosh is available as tinctures, syrup, capsules, fluidextract, and also as dried root and rhizome.

At home:
Decoction: 1/2 tsp. powdered rootstock per cup of water boiled for 30 minutes and cooled. Lemon and honey can be added to take away the bitter taste.
Combination: The dried herb mixed with skullcap, wood betony, passionflower,and valerian makes a mild tranquilizer.

Special Information

• WARNING: Because it can potentially cause serious side effects, use black cohosh only under medical supervision.
  
• WARNING: Individuals suffering from congestive heart failure or any other type of heart disease should not use black cohosh.
  
• Do not use if you are pregnant, because it can cause premature labor.
  
• Do not take the herb if you have been advised not to take contraceptive pills.