AKA: Black Snake Root. Rattle Root. Squaw Root. Bugbane, Bugwort, Rattleroot, Rattleweed, Rattlesnake's Root, Richweed, Cimicifuga, Sheng Ma, Chinese Black Cohosh
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.
