Black Cohosh

Black Cohosh

Actaea racemosa (syn. Cimicifuga racemosa)

Botanical Family: Ranunculaceae (Buttercup family)

Botanical Description

Actaea racemosa is an elegant woodland perennial growing 1-2.5 meters tall. Large, compound leaves are divided and re-divided into sharply toothed leaflets. In summer, tall, slender wands (racemes) of small, white, fluffy flowers emerge, giving rise to the common name “fairy candles.” The flowers have an unpleasant smell that attracts flies for pollination. The thick, dark rhizome has a bitter, acrid taste.

Medicinal Actions

Primary actions: Hormone-modulating (phytoestrogen-like effects), antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, nervine, analgesic.

Traditional uses: Native American tribes, particularly the Algonquin, used black cohosh for women’s health conditions, pain, and rheumatism. The name “cohosh” comes from an Algonquin word. It became known as “squaw root” by early settlers (a term now considered inappropriate).

Modern research: Most research has focused on menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes. The mechanism of action is debated – earlier theories suggested direct estrogenic activity, but current evidence suggests effects on serotonin receptors and/or dopaminergic systems.

Body Systems Affected

Reproductive: Traditionally used for menstrual irregularities, menopausal symptoms (hot flashes, mood changes, sleep disturbances).

Musculoskeletal: Anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic for muscle and joint pain, particularly with tension.

Nervous: Mild nervine; used for stress-related symptoms accompanying hormonal changes.

Safety Information

⚠️ IMPORTANT SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS:

Pregnancy: CONTRAINDICATED during pregnancy due to potential effects on uterine tone.

Nursing: Safety not established; avoid during nursing.

Estrogen-sensitive conditions: While not directly estrogenic, caution is advised in hormone-sensitive cancers, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids. Consult an oncologist if you have a history of breast cancer.

Liver: Rare reports of liver damage have occurred. Discontinue use and seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of liver problems (abdominal pain, dark urine, jaundice).

Duration: Traditionally used for 6 months or less. Take breaks in extended use.

Side effects: May cause headache, gastrointestinal upset, or dizziness in some people.

Growing Guide

Hardiness: Zones 3-8. Native to eastern North American woodlands.

Light: Partial to full shade. A true woodland plant.

Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter. Mimics forest floor conditions.

Sowing: Seeds require cold stratification (90+ days). Best sown outdoors in fall for spring germination, or cold stratify in refrigerator.

Spacing: 60cm apart. Plants form substantial clumps over time.

Note: Wild populations are threatened by overharvesting. Growing your own is conservation-minded.

Harvesting

Part used: Rhizome and roots.

When to harvest: Autumn after the plant has been growing for 3-5 years and is well established.

Method: Dig carefully to extract the knotted rhizome. Leave some roots to regenerate.

Drying & Storage

Wash rhizomes thoroughly and cut into pieces. Dry at 35-40°C (95-104°F) until completely dry and hard. The dried root is dark brown to black with a bitter, acrid taste. Store in airtight containers in a cool, dark place for up to 2 years.