BLACK COHOSH
cimicifuga racemosa
family Ranunculaceae



AKA
baneberry
bugwort
black snakeroot
cimicifuga
rattle root
squaw root

CAUTION: Large doses can cause poisoning.
Potential Dangers

Do not use this herb during pregnancy,
due to its emmenagogue effect.
However it may be used to speed
an unusually slow stage of labour.
Do not use this herb for nursing mothers,
due to its potential toxicity in large doses.

Potential uses: It's thought that black cohosh can relieve
menopausal symptoms, especially hot flashes.

Usual dose: An extract containing one milligram
of active ingredient taken twice per day.

Are there any risks?
Black cohosh may be safe at recommended doses,
but possible side effects include
liver damage and autoimmune hepatitis.

What does the research show?
One clinical trial in women with breast cancer showed
that black cohosh gave no more relief
from hot flashes than a placebo (sugar pill).
Preliminary work on individual cells suggests black cohosh
may act on estrogen receptors in some way and is associated
with lowered breast cancer risk.
Until more is known, women with breast cancer or who are
at high risk for breast cancer should avoid black cohosh.

FOLKLORE AND HISTORY
Black Cohosh root was used by Native Americans to treat
snake bite and as a ceremonial herb to bring visions.
The root was thought by some early American settlers
to be the main ingredient in witches brew, and any female
caught with it in her possession was burned as a witch.

HARVEST
Gather Black Cohosh rootstock in the fall after the fruit has formed.
Wash roots carefully, blot with paper towel or absorbent cloth.
Dry in a well ventilated area away from smoke,
pets and pests, preferably on wire racks.

HERB RECIPES
Black Cohosh Decoction:
Add 2 tsp. dried rootstock
to 1 pint of water, boil and let cool.
Give 2 to 3 tbsp. up to six times a day.

Black Cohosh Tincture:
Soak 2 to 3 oz. powdered rootstock in 8 to 12 oz.
Vodka for 3 weeks shaking the jar 1 or 2 times a day.
Strain, give 5 drops 3 to 4 times a day.