COMMON NAME
Standardized: black cohosh
Other: black bugbane, black snakeroot, rheumatism weed
BOTANICAL NAME
Actaea racemosa L.
Plant Family: Ranunculaceae
SYNONYMS
Cimicifuga racemosa
OVERVIEW
Black Cohosh is a flowering perennial, native to many parts of Canada and the United States. It thrives in old-growth coastal forests and regions of considerable biodiversity. The vast majority of the world's black cohosh is produced and cultivated in the United States and Canada. The plant grows between three and six feet, with a stem that is clustered with tiny white flowers. The root is best collected between late July and September.
It was a favorite herbal remedy for Native Americans. The name cohosh is from the Algonquian tribe, and means rough, referring to the feel of the rhizome. It was given the name "bugbane" because the flowers have such a strong odor, and have been used to effectively repel insects.
PARTS USED
Dried root.
TYPICAL PREPARATIONS
Finely chopped, dried root in tablets, teas, or tinctures.
PRECAUTIONS
Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.