Product Description
Black Cohosh is a plant indigenous to North America, and is widely used by the native peoples in various ways. The scientific name of the Black Cohosh plant is Actaea Racemosa, or Cimifuga, and is an evergreen of the plant family Rananculaceae. This plant has high levels of estrogen like components, though it is unclear how many other medicinal uses it may contain.
Black Cohosh is sometimes mistaken for its cousin, the Blue Cohosh, a more potent plant.
The Black Cohosh Root Extract is composed of: triterpene glycosides, organic acids, cinnanimic acid, vitamins A, B, E, and F, Caffeic and salicylic acids, Tannins, Phytosterols, and Cimicifugosides.
Traditional Uses of Black Cohosh
The Native Americas recognized the potential health benefits of the root extract (dried or fresh)in many gynecological disorders, such as: menstrual problems, labor, and menopause. Also, it has been used to reduce muscle pain, treat palpitations, minimize intestinal discomfort, treat malaria, kidney disorders, rheumatism, sore throats, malaise, snake bites, colds, backaches, hives, and to induce or increase lactation.
In shamanistic practices, the root was used in ceremonies to bring on visions.
During the early 19th century, black cohosh root extract has been prescribed by physicians to treat: lung disorders, neurological disorders, infertility, uterine inflammation, labor pain, and other gynecological issues.
Modern Uses of Black Cohosh Root Extract
Recorded modern uses for the Black Cohosh root extract are; treatment of PMS disorders, arthritis, breast cancer, and other gynecological and obstetrical disorders, and the treatment of climacteric syndrome, insomnia, depression, and other neurological disorders. Studies have shown that the effects of the root are due to its estrogen-like properties, but before any conclusions can be made, more studies are required.
The Black Cohosh root extract can also be used as an abortifacient, and to correct problems in ovulation and other hormone issues. It also stimulates the onset of menstruation so use caution while pregnant or nursing.
Research has shown that Black Cohosh Root extract has a labor inducing property. Combining Black Cohosh Root Extract with raspberries, blue cohosh, and yellow hellebore is often used during the third trimester to prime the body for labor. The true dangers of Black Cohosh use for feminine issues are still under study, but researchers agree that cimicifugosides shouldn’t be used while pregnant.
Medicinal Facts
Studies have shown that the cimicifugosides in the Black Cohosh root have an anti-estrogenic effect, which restricts the estradiol’s ability to proliferate cells. The root has also proven to reduce the levels of luteinizing hormones without affecting the levels of follicle stimulating hormones. Also, it helps inhibit the growth of cancerous cells in breast cancer patients, and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Directions: Take 1 to 2 droppersful 3 times daily. May be mixed with juice or water if desired.
This product was added to our catalog on Friday 25 June, 2004.
