Black cohosh, also known as "squaw root" has traditionally been used to treat gynecological related issues such as painful periods and problems associated with menopause. In fact, at least 10 clinical trials have found that black cohosh had a 78% success rate in treating menopausal symptoms--especially hot flashes. Today, black cohosh is also used to treat rheumatic problems, arthritis, high blood pressure, tinnitus, and asthma. It is an effective remedy for such ailments because black cohosh is an estrogenic, anti-inflammatory, and sedative herb, among others.
History & Folklore
The root of black cohosh has been long used as a Native American remedy for gynecological complaints such as painful periods, low estrogen related menstrual problems, and menopausal symptoms. Because of these reasons, black cohosh has also been given the name "squaw root". It was also used by the Penobscot peoples to treat kidney troubles.
Habitat & Cultivation
Black Cohosh is a herbaceous perennial growing as tall as 8 feet high. It has cone-like, creamy-white flowers. The root of the plant is most commonly used in herbal medicine; and the more mature the roots are, the stronger the active constituents will be. Black Cohosh is native to Canada and eastern parts of the United States and can be found growing in the wild in Europe. It prefers shady areas in woodland structures. It is propagated from seed in spring and the root is harvested in autumn.
Uses
Sedative properties make black cohosh valuable in treating high blood pressure, tinnitus, whooping cough, and asthma
Inflammation useful for inflammatory arthritis (especially menopause induced), it is also useful as a remedy to rheumatic issues
Gynecological Remedy good for period pains, low estrogen related menstrual problems, and menopausal symptoms
Parts used
Root (fresh or dried) unearthed in autumn, dried root is most commonly used in herbal medicine, the active constituents are strongest in mature roots
Key Actions
Anti-inflammatory
Sedative
Antirheumatic
Estrongenic
Expectorant
Constituents
Triterpene glycosides (acetein, cimicifugoside)
Isoflavones (formononetin)
Isoferulic acid
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 79.
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