BLACK COHOSH ROOT

Actaea racemosa (formerly Cimicifuga racemosa)

Native Americans of the Eastern United States highly valued this delightful, conspicuous member of the Buttercup family with its tall flower spike that rises brightly from the thicket of the forest floor. The first settlers soon learned the benefits of this amazing herb and used it as the Indians taught them, for muscular aches and pains, and, most importantly, as an excellent regulating herb for 'female complaints'. Black Cohosh rose to fame with the Eclectic branch of medicine, which valued it highly, but almost sunk into oblivion when the eclectic fad faded away. However, it was noted by some Europeans who took it back to England and Germany. The English planted it in their gardens, while the Germans took it to the laboratory. Thus the knowledge about this wonderful healing herb was preserved even though in its native land it had been all but forgotten, until recently. As baby boomers are confronted with the first signs of menopause they are looking for alternatives to the conventional hormone replacement therapy and Black Cohosh is one of the best herbs to fit the bill.

Traditional
Black Cohosh is one of the best herbs to ally menopausal discomforts, hot flashes, irregular cycle etc. Under close medical supervision it is also of great service as an aid to parturition that can regulate contractions and eases the pain of labour. Black Cohosh is also an excellent nervine and offers pain relief from general rheumatic pains, such as arise from changing weather, or those that are associated with the flu. Nervous tension, ocular muscle strain and associated headaches can benefit from the use of Black Cohosh.

Magical
Sacred to the great Goddess Black Cohosh is used in the female mysteries. Black Cohosh is an ally for women at the initiation into the 3rd phase of womanhood. It offers protection and inner guidance by connecting body and soul. It can be used to assimilate the wisdom of the wise wound and draw upon its creative power.

Synonyms
Black Snake Root, Rattle Root, Squaw Root, Bugbane.

Cautions
Not all herbs are suitable in pregnancy, breastfeeding or for young children, or if you are unwell, or taking any medication. If in doubt, please ask a medical herbalist or healthcare practitioner.