Sunday, October 26, 2008

BLACK COHOSH


AKA: Black snakeroot, bugbane, bugwort, cimicifuga, Cimicifuga racemosa, rattleroot, rattleweed, richweed, squawroot.

Effects: May be a mild relaxant. It contains estrogen-like substances which may be helpful in treating symptoms associated with menstruation and menopause. Various extracts have displayed antiinflammatory, sedative, and blood pressure-lowering effects in animals. It has traditionally been used by Native Americans to treat chronic fatigue, malaria, rheumatism, kidney problems, sore throat, and female disorders. Herbalists have used it for bronchitis, fever, itching, high blood pressure, anxiety, menstrual cramps, and symptoms of menopause.

Precautions: It should not be used by anyone suffering from a chronic disease. No scientific studies of its effects have been done on humans. It may have a stimulating effect on the cardiac system. Consumption of large amounts could cause nausea (though mild nausea may just be a response to its bitter taste), vomiting, sweating, and dizziness.

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