Black Cohosh

Also Known As: Black Snake Root, Fairy Candle, Macrotys, Rattle Root, and Squaw Root

Botanical Name: Cimicifuga Racemosa

Family Name: Ranunculaceae

Native To: Eastern North America

Parts To Use: Root

How It’s Used: Native Americans used black cohosh for a variety of medical conditions ranging from gynecological problems to snake bites.Other uses include treatment of sore throats and bronchitis. Currently, the primary use of this product is as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for treatment of menopause and premenstrual syndrome.

Harvesting: Due to its endangered listing, we recommend not harvesting any wild form of black cohosh. The roots of cultivated plants can be harvested in the fall after all of its aerial proponents have died out.

Native to eastern North American woodlands, it is a tall perennial. During the warmer months of spring and summer, it blooms delicate creamy-white flowers. These flowers have often been referred to as “fairy candles.” There scent is considered unpleasant, but does attract a variety of pollinators, like bees. Although known to attract flies and gnats, it was also used as a bug repellent.

The plants rough looking roots carry a dark brown to black characteristic.This plant has been traditionally used as an antidote to poisonous snake bites. Many North American indigenous groups have been known to use black cohosh in a variety of herbal remedies, however, recorded evidence of its specific uses is limited. It has been known to be used to combat rheumatism and used as a general tonic. It’s considered to be a health benefit for the kidneys. The American Eclectic physicians community believes the root can be used to pain, such as muscle aches. Also used to soothe coughs and to improve digestion.

In modern medicine, black cohosh is commonly use to support gynecological imbalances and issues. Women also often use it for premenstrual discomfort or menopausal ailments. It may stimulate contractions and should not be given to pregnant women except during the last week of pregnancy or when the birth date is overdue. There is low and inconclusive reportings of the the safety and effectiveness of black cohosh. We do not recommend giving to pregnant women or young children.