| Black Cohosh |
| Parts Used Roots and rhizomes |
|
| Common
Uses |
 |
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. |
|
Herbalists also recommend it as a diuretic, an
astringent, a cough suppressant and to relieve diarrhea |
|
Helps to relieve panic attacks and other
nervous conditions |
|
|
| Side Effects Occasional stomach upsets have been reported while taking Black
Cohosh. No other contraindications are known at this time. |
|
| Safety Issues Black Cohosh should not be taken if you are pregnant or if you have any type
of chronic disease. |
|
| 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. |
