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Blue Cohosh
Blue Cohosh refers to a flower that is native to North America also known by
its botanical name, Caulophyllum Thalictroides. Often referred to as papoose
root, squawroot, blue ginseng, caulophylum, yellow ginseng, and blueberry root,
Blue Cohosh grows in low, rich, moist soil in swamps and near running streams.
Between the period of May and June, Blue Cohosh grows small yellowish-green
flowers in addition to one or two seeds which are about the size of a large
pea. The seed ripens in August and its berries are dry and mawkish. Although
Blue Cohosh is not related to Black Cohosh, Cimicifuga Racemosa, both herbs
are used primarily in the treatment of female health problems.
Originally used by Native Americans as a way to induce labor and menstruation,
Blue Cohosh continues to be used in the present as an herbal remedy for the
same purposes. The medicinal herbs are derived from the rhizome and roots of
Blue Cohosh and is usually in combination with other herbs. One potent herbal
combination is Blue Cohosh with Black Cohosh, Black Haw, and Red Raspberry Leaf.
Blue Cohosh can be used as: an antispasmodic which are used to relive muscular
spasms, cramps, or convulsion; an anthelmintic which are used to destroy intestinal
worms, parasites, vermicide, and vermifuge; a diaphoretic which are used to
promote perspiration; a dieuretic which are used to cleanse the urinary system
by increasing the volume and flow of urine; an emmenagogue which are used to
promote menstrual flow; and an oxytocic which are used to facilitate childbirth
by stimulating contractions of the uterine muscle.
As an herbal supplement to treat medical conditions, Blue Cohosh has been used
in the treatment of: blood conditions as it aids in the dissolving of fats in
the bloodstream; brain and nervous system conditions such as epilepsy and hysteria;
a variety of female conditions such as stimulating a speedy delivery during
childbirth due to the presence of the alkaloid saponin, as well as regulating
menstruation and treating uterine inflammation; gastrointestinal conditions
particularly in the treatment of colic and cramps in children; genitourinary
conditions such as dropsy; and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatism.
Blue Cohosh is generally used either by decoction or tincture. It is generally
taken as a tincture and should not be used more than 1-2 ml, three times per
day. If used in decoction, the recommended preparation is 1 ounce of root to
1 pint of boiling water, soaked for one half hour. Dosages should be between
two to four fluid ounces three or four times per day. It should not be taken
during pregnancy except in the final two weeks and individuals with a history
of: high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, glaucoma, or strokes should
consult with their doctor before using Blue Cohosh. Additionally Blue Cohosh
should not be used in excessive doses as it can lead to side effects such as
nausea, headaches, and high blood pressure.
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