Black Cohosh

The herb known as Black Cohosh is actually an extraction from the black cohosh plant. This plant is a native North American plant that is frequently referred to with such names as snakeroot, bugbane, squaw root and rattleroot. A member of the buttercup family; its official name is Cimicu-fuga racemosa. The Native Americans have historically used black cohosh root for a wide variety of medical treatments.

One of the earliest uses for black cohosh root is the treatment of symptoms associated with menopause. It has been noted to relieve hot flashes, anxiety, vaginal dryness and even depression. There has been extensive use of this herb throughout Europe as a treatment for the symptoms of menopause under the drug trade name Remifemin. In addition, some people believe that black cohosh root may also be able to fight the loss of estrogen that is a natural side effect during menopause. Specifically, the phytoestrogens contained with the plant are believed to help combat this loss.

Beyond menopausal use, it has also been used to treat cramps, headaches and other symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome. Other uses for black cohosh root include treatment various fevers, small pox and mumps. The extreme joint pain often associated with rheumatoid and osteoarthritis has also been treated with this plan as well as various other problems such as cough, sore throat and congestion.

While black cohosh has proven to be quite beneficial in treating a variety of illnesses, it is not without side effects. Some side effects that have been associated with the use of this plant include nausea, dizziness, body aches, headaches and low blood pressure. The good news is that it has been noted that eating a small meal with the ingestion of the plan can help to diminish possible nausea.

One of the more serious side effects related to black cohosh root includes its known ability to reduce the leutenizing process in females. Therefore, it is highly recommended that women who are pregnant, or who may be pregnant, not take black cohosh root. In early pregnancy, and even beyond, black cohosh root can cause very serious problems which may result in miscarriage. Also, because of the fact that black cohosh can be passed from the mother to a nursing infant, women who are nursing are not recommended to use black cohosh root. Finally, women who take birth control pills should be aware that this plant can negatively impact the proper use of the product.

Consumers should be aware that it is the root that provides the most medicinal benefit. It is available in over the counter capsules, tablets and tinctures as well as in a tea.

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