Scientific Name: Cimicifuga Racemosa
Origin: United States
AKA: Black Snake Root. Rattle Root. Squaw Root. Bugbane, Bugwort, Rattleroot, Rattleweed, Rattlesnake's Root, Richweed, Cimicifuga, Sheng Ma, Chinese Black Cohosh
Parts Used: Root
Active Compounds: Triterpene glycosides, such as Acetin and Cimicifugoside; Isoflavones, such as Formononetin, which binds to estrogen receptor sites. Other compounds include aromatic acids, tannins, resins, fatty acids, starches, and sugars, salicylic acid, and isoferulic acid.
Background: Native Americans used Black Cohosh for a variety of conditions. The flowers of the Black Cohosh have a strong odor and effectively repel insects, earning it the name Bugbane. The name Cohosh comes from the Algonquin word for rough, referring to the root of the plant.
Description: Black Cohosh is a shrub native to the deciduous forest of North America. It is a perennial plant reaching 3 to 8 ft with a long plume of white flowers at the top. The leaves are large and divided like a feather. The leaflets are generally irregular in shape with serrated edges. The root is black in color when harvested in the fall.
Safety: Due to the estrogen-like effect of Black Cohosh, it should be avoided by women who are pregnant or lactating. Likewise, women who are already on some form of estrogen therapy should consult a physician before using Black Cohosh. Large doses may cause abdominal pain, nausea, headache, dizziness and miscarriage.
More Bulk Herbs and Spices Information:
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For educational purposes only
This Black Cohosh information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.