Black Cohosh

Photo by Kathryn Higgins

Black Cohosh grows in the rich soil of eastern woods. The clumps of stems have twisted rhizomes and grow 3-8 feet tall. The toothed leaflets grow alternately along the stem and are pinnately compound. The long terminal, feathery looking flower spikes have small, white flowers with no petals. The root can be used to relieve menstrual cramps and back pain. A pytoestrogen, it has estrogenic effects on the body and is used to reduce hot flashes and other menopausal discomforts. Black Cohosh, along with Blue Cohosh, stimulates the uterus to bring on labor and strengthen contractions. Not for use before the last 2 weeks of pregnancy.