Known also as squaw root, it is a native of North America and is a flowering plant used for centuries by the women of Indian tribes to help with hormonal problems. Black cohosh is also used for these types of situations, but is a completely different species. The flowers were often used by American Indians, but the root and rhizomes of the herb are more commonly used in herbal medicine.
Action of Blue cohosh
The herb contains several alkaloids which may have various actions, however a compound called caulosaponin is thought to stimulate contractions of the uterus. It is said to be anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory, ant-rheumatic a uterine tonic and emmenagogue (stimulates menstruation).
Blue cohosh Uses
Historically it has been used to treat a number of conditions including:
| Amenorrhoea (lack of menstruation)
| Dysmenorrhoea (painful periods)
| Menopausal rheumatism
| Vaginal inflammation
Other Blue cohosh Information
Blue cohosh is normally available as a herbal liquid tincture for internal use. 1ml-2ml can be taken up to three times per day. It is more commonly found with other herbs in formulas designed to regulate female health. In female adolescence it helps to establish a regular pre-menstrual cycle, and it is important when women stop using the contraceptive pill as it helps to re-balance menstruation.
Cautions When Using Blue cohosh
| Recent findings suggest that the herb should not be used during pregnancy (raspberry leaf is a good alternative) and higher than 2ml-3ml doses three times per day may lead to headaches, nausea and high blood pressure.
| At the time of writing there are no other well-known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications from using this herb.
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