Black Cohosh: The Herbal Alternative

Black cohosh (botanical name Cimicifuga racemosa), has for a long time been known to be an effective herbal relief for premenstrual syndrome (PMS), dysmenorrheal, and menopause. A member of the buttercup family, black cohosh is a large bushy perennial plant growing from four to eight feet in height in the deciduous forests of North America. It is also commonly known as black snakeroot, squaw root, rattleweed, rattleroot, rattletop, bugbane, bugwort, and macrotys.

The drug was introduced as a medicine by the Native American Indians who boiled and drank boiled roots to relieve a variety of conditions including rheumatism, sore throat, and various female complaints.

The Black Cohosh has a long folk history of:

• gynecological uses (easing childbirth, relieving menstrual symptoms, especially hot flashes, debility, depression)

• inflammatory relief (arthritis, rheumatism, joint and muscle injuries)

• sedative properties (asthma, bronchitis, coughs, colds and sore throat)

• also used as a diuretic, astringent, antidiarrheal, and alterative

Modern experience with black cohosh (particularly its resinous roots and rhizome) has its reputation as a remedy for “female complaints” - in premenstrual and menopausal symptoms such as excessive bleeding, irregular periods, delayed menstruation, severe menstrual cramps, hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, depression, and sleep disturbances.

It is important to remember that herbal products and dietary supplements can produce adverse effects in some people. It can very well interact with some over-the-counter and prescription medications that you may be taking. Black cohosh has a balancing effect on hormone production, particularly estrogen. Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers are not advised to use the herb. Neither should it be used for more than six months at a time at normal doses. Large doses of this herb may cause abdominal pains, nausea, headaches, and dizziness.

Always seek for your doctor’s advice regarding any decision on using any herbal product.