Black Cohosh
Cimicfuga racemosa
Also known as Black Snakeroot, Bugbane, Bugwort, and Squawroot
History: Black Cohosh is often planted in gardens for its pretty white blossoms; however, Its twisted, black roots are sought out for medicinal value. The Black Cohosh plant is native to eastern North American and was widely used by natives to promote kidney function and for addressing women's disorders, such as cramps. It is also used by Cherokee and other Native American tribes as a sedative.
ModernUses: diarrhoea, consumption, cough, fever, high heart rate, whooping-cough
Commission E approved the use of black cohosh root for premenstrual discomfort and dysmenorrhea or climacteric (menopausal) neurovegetative ailments. Acteina, a constituent in black cohosh, has been studied for use in treating peripheral arterial disease
Active Ingredients: Resin, bitter glycosides, ranunculin (changes to anemonin upon drying), salicylic acid, tannin, estrogenic principle
Actions: Antispasmodic, alterative, sedative, nervine, tonic, emmenagogue,Astringent, diuretic, expectorant
Complementary Herbs: Blue Cohosh, Bogbean
Warning: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Overdoses produce nausea and vomiting.