A native plant of North America, Black Cohosh was used by Native American Indians over two hundred years ago for a variety of gynecological ailments and symptoms associated with menstruation and the menopause. The extracts have certainly been useful as an analgesic and sedative with action against certain types of inflammation. The Algonquian word ‘cohosh’ actually means ‘rough’ and is so called because the plant’s root and rhizome are used in concoctions. We might also know it as Black Bugbane, Fairy Candle or Black Snakeroot (Actaea racemosa syn. Cimicifuga racemosa) (family: Ranunculaceae).

Black Cohosh contains some interesting isoflavones which apparently mimic hormonal activity and it is also thought to have estrogenic properties itself.

Availability

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The dried roots are available from our affiliate marketing partner, Pestle Herbs in 50g  and 100g  amounts. Click on the amount to purchase the desired amount of herb.

Uses

• Black Cohosh can act as a mild sedative and as an anti-inflammatory properties and some studies suggest it offers relief for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Helps with hot flushes and other symptoms associated with the menopause. FoodWrite has examined the evidence around this claim and its worth a read ! (see article link).
• Can influence estrogen levels and help with mood swings and irritability associated with menstruation.

Preparation

Taken as tablets or prepared as a strong, dark tea made with the roots.

Cautionary Information

• Do not use if you have a liver condition although an increasing number of clinical trials report that there is no adverse action on the liver
• If you develop stomach or other gastric pain, stop using immediately (longer use could cause these side effects).
• Do not use while pregnant or nursing (breastfeeding)
• Do not give to any child under two years old
• Not for those with breast cancer or are receiving chemotherapy such as cisplatin.
• Not for those with high blood pressure, hypertension or for those taking medicines to control blood pressure.

References

Naser, B., Schnitker, Jörg; Minkin, Mary Jane; De Arriba, Susana Garcia; Nolte, Klaus-Ulrich; Osmers, Rüdiger (2011). Suspected black cohosh hepatotoxicity. Menopause. 18 (4): pp. 366–75. PMID 21228727. doi:10.1097/gme.0b013e3181fcb2a6.