BLACK COHOSH

(Cimicufuga racemosa)


Pat used: rhizome
Properties: Antispasmodic, emmenagogue, alternative, diuretic.
What it affects: Uterus, nerves, lungs, and heart. 3-4 ties daily

Preparation and amount:
Infusion: Take 1 tsp. every min. up to 3 tbsp every 3 hours, according to need.
Decoction (root): simmer 5-15 min. take 1-2 oz. 3-4 times daily.
Tincture: take 1/2-1 tsp. 3 times daily.
Fluid extract: 5-30 drops 3 tomes daily.
Syrup: take 1/2-1 tbsp 3-4 times daily
Powder: take 1-5 #0  capsules (5-30 grains) 3 times daily.

Properties:
Internally: black cohosh is a helpful antispasmodic for all nervous conditions, fits, convulsions, spasmodic afflictions, cramps, and pains. American  Indians used it for all pelvic conditions, uterine troubles, to relieve the pains of child birth and the menstrual cycle, including back pain. It will help to bring about menstrual flow that has been retarded by exposure to child. It lowers blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It induces labor and aids in child birth.Many herbalists recommend taking it 2 weeks before child birth. It is good for morning sickness and pain.

Black cohosh reduce mucous production.It is a potent remedy for hysteria and spasmodic problems such as whooping cough, consumption and chorea (St. Vitus Dance). Both infusion and decoction have been used for rheumatism and chronic bronchitis, as well as neuralgia and bronchial spasms.It has a seductive effect on the nervous system, but it also acts as a cardiac stimulant.Small doses are helpful for diarrhea in children.It has been used for dropsy, spinal meningitis, and as an emetic.It even helps in case of poisonous snakebites. It can be used for eruptive diseases, such as meals: and by equalizing the circulation, it is an excellent remedy for high blood pressure. Combined in a tincture or in capsules with equal parts of elecampane and wild  cherry bark and taken with a tea of verba santa, it is an excellent remedy for whooping cough,respiratory  spasms, asthma, and bronchitis.

Note:
Black cohosh is often combined with blue cohosh, since they complement one another.

Warning:
Large doses can cause nausea and dizziness. Some herbalist say not to use either blue cohosh or black cohosh in teas, because some of the active principles are not soluble in water.