BLACK COHOSH EXTRACT
(Cimicifuga racemosa, L.)
Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, diuretic, emmenagogue,
expectorant, hypotensive, parturifacient, sedative.
Common Names:
Black Cohosh, Baneberry, Black Snakeroot, Bugbane, Squaw Root.
Parts Used: Roots.
Historical Uses:
Black Cohosh has been used to treat rheumatism
and to relieve muscular and neurological pain.
Traditional uses include treatment of female diseases, including
painful menstruation, uterine cramps
and delayed menstruation.
This herb is deemed to have a beneficial effect in the management
of menopausal hot flashes.
Native Americans used it to treat snakebite. Black Cohosh is considered
to be an antidote to all sorts of bites (bees,
flies, spiders, snakes).
In folk medicine, Black Cohosh was used in fomentation (cloth
soaked in the extract and applied externally) to treat headaches,
migraines, epilepsy, insomnia, meningitis, and tense nerves, and
internally to increase the intensity of uterine contractions during
childbirth.
Contraindications: Black
Cohosh should not be used during early pregnancy.
Adverse reactions:
Potential toxicities associated with excessive consumption.
May cause headaches.
Dosage: 10 to 60 drops three times per day.
Externally, apply profusely on bites and stings. Sensitive people
should use minimal dosage.
