A – Z of Herbal Remedies

Other Names: Black Cohosh, Black Snake Root, Rattleweed, Richweed, Snakeroot, Rattleroot, Squaw Root, Bugbane, Bugwort, Cimicifuga Racemosa
Traditional Usages: Premenstrual Problems, Cramps, Stiff Neck, Breast Pains, Scarlet Fever, High Blood Pressure, Headaches, Measles, Rheumatic Problems, Tinnitus, Whooping Cough, Diarrhea, Arthritis, Insomnia, Respiratory Conditions including Pleurisy, Pneumonia, Asthma and Croup, Menopause, Anxiety, Sciatica, Low Back Pain,
Resources: Canada, US, Europe, China
Parts Used: Rhizomes, Root
Administraion Method: Herbal preparations for internal use (do not use longer than 6-months).
Herb Actions: Estrogen-like action. 
Herbal Research: Black Cohosh
Health Warning: Avoid during Pregnancy and Breastfeeding. Black cohosh may occasionally cause gastric discomfort.

Black Cohosh - Herbal remedy for Arthritis: Black Cohosh (also called Black Snakeroot) has been used extensively in treating arthritis. Black cohosh tea was used by Native Americans as a remedy for rattlesnake bites, arthritis, malaria and sore throat. Besides fresh or dried root, black cohosh is available as a liquid extract, tincture, capsules and tablets. Adults should take one tablet of 40-80 milligrams per day or 2-4 millilitres of extract in a tea or water three times daily.

Black Cohosh - Herbal remedy for Childbirth: Black cohosh soothes uterine contraction. Black cohosh has some risks but it is generally considered to be a safe and effective herbal medicine when used with caution in pregnancy and childbirth. It has historically been used by  the practitioners of Native American herbalism, and it is used for the treatment of sore throat, depression, menopausal, menstrual cramps, common pregnancy complications and infertility. It has also been used for inducing labour and lactation. While black cohosh remains extremely common among advocates of natural birth, its use is controversial in the mainstream medical community because some consider it unsafe.

Health Warning: Seek doctor’s advice before use. Only a qualified midwife or obstetrician can fully determine the wisdom of using black cohosh during pregnancy or labour, based on the individual situation of the patient. So no dosage is recommended here. See your doctor or midwife for advice. 

Black Cohosh - Herbal remedy for Cramps:  Take 20-40 milligrams of black cohosh extract twice a day. Black cohosh is a native American plant whose roots and underground stems have traditionally been used to treat muscle and joint pain as well as menstrual cramps.
Health Warning:  Side effects of black cohosh include gastrointestinal issues and headaches. Black cohosh should not be taken for longer than a period of six months.

Black Cohosh – Herbal remedy for Increase Male Fertility: Black cohosh can help increase the mobility of sperm. Take a capsule of 540 milligrams daily.

Black Cohosh - Herbal remedy for Headaches: This native North American plant which has a history of being used for rheumatism can be extremely effective in treating headaches because the herb has estrogen effects, it is better for women but men can take it for short periods as well. Black cohosh is taken  by women for headaches which is one of the symptoms of menopause. One tablet of 20 - 40 milligrams  should be taken twice a day for four  weeks. Men can also take 20 milligram tablets twice daily for two weeks to prevent prostrate cancer.

Black Cohosh - Herbal remedy for Infertility: Black Cohosh is commonly used to treat fibroids, menstrual problems and other female hormone related problems. Suggested dosage can vary from 40 - 200 mg per day.

Black Cohosh - Herbal remedy for Menopause: Black Cohosh is a popular herbal remedy for menopause. It reduces symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats. Black cohosh is rich in ingredients that help your body secrete the necessary amount of estrogen. It helps with uterine spasms and cramps that often accompany menopause. Take 1 teaspoon of black cohosh juice every day.
Health Warning: Black Cohosh should not be used by anyone with a history of liver disease. It should not be taken by people who have suffered from stroke or  who have high blood pressure.

Black Cohosh – Herbal remedy for Menstrual Cramps: Take 20-40 milligrams of black cohosh extract twice a day. It can help treat menstrual cramps.
Health Warning: Possible side effects can include gastrointestinal issues and headaches. Therefore black cohosh should not be taken for longer than six months.

Black Cohosh - Herbal remedy for Osteoporosis: The plant-based estrogens in black cohosh can help prevent osteoporosis. Take 1 teaspoon of black cohosh juice every day.

Black Cohosh – Herbal remedy for Panic Disorder: It is relaxing and good for the nervous system. Take 10 drops of tincture in half a glass of water three times daily. You can also infuse 1 teaspoon of dried herb in 1 cup of boiling water to make a tea. Black cohosh can be combined with skullcap, passion flower, valerian, St. John’s wort or lemon balm. Mix one teaspoon of each herb in dried form. Then infuse one teaspoon of mixed herbs in a cup of boiling water and drink twice daily.

Black Cohosh - Herbal remedy for PMS: Black cohosh relieves PMS symptoms. Take 20 drops of tincture in a glass of water three times a day.
Health Warning: Do not take this herb if you are undergoing chemotherapy as it may reduce the effectiveness of chemotherapeutic drugs. Get advice from your doctor before taking black cohosh .

• Arthritis
• Childbirth
• Cramps
• Fertility
• Headaches
• Infertility
• Menopause
• Menstrual Cramps
• Osteoporosis
• Panic Attack and Panic Disorder
• Premenstrual Syndrome, PMS