What is the black cohosh herb?

This North American plant has been called various names throughout history, such as black snakeroot, bugbane, rattleroot and squaw root.

Historically, the plant was used by North American Indians to treat a variety of medical problems.

Black cohosh herb has been used for many years in order to treat the symptoms of menopause. Specifically, the herb is beneficial in relieving depression, hot flashes, anxiety and vaginal dryness.

Black cohosh has been used extensively throughout Europe for many years, under the drug trade name Remifemin, for the treatment of menopausal symptoms.

The plant is thought to be able to combat the loss of estrogen a woman experiences during menopause, with the phytoestrogens contained within the plant. The herb is also used for treatment of symptoms related to premenstrual syndrome, such as cramps and headaches.

Black cohosh has also been known for use in treatment of the pain related to mumps, small pox, and fevers, as well as joint pain in rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Additionally, black cohosh has been used to treat cough, congestion, and sore throat.

Black cohosh has been known to cause dizziness, nausea, low pressure, body aches, and headache. Taking the herb with a small meal may help to combat the side effect of nausea. Because black cohosh is known to reduce the leutenizing process in the female body, it is extremely important that it is not used by women who are pregnant.

Use of the black cohosh extract by pregnant women, especially in early pregnancy, can result in serious problems, including miscarriage. Additionally, women who are nursing should not use black cohosh. The herb may interact negatively with birth control pills.

The portion of the black cohosh herb plant that contributes the maximum medicinal benefit is the root.

The herb is available as a tincture, in capsule form, tablets and as a tea. The active ingredient in black cohosh is triterpenes glycosides.

Black cohosh herb capsules and tablets should contain at least 2.5% triterpenes glycosides while liquid forms should contain at least 5% of the active ingredient.

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