Black Cohosh is a member of the buttercup family and has been used by native North Americans for hundreds of years to relieve symptoms of menopause and menstruation.

Capsules, extract, and tea are made from dried roots.

• Use roots and rhizomes
• Antispasmodic
• Diuretic
• Menstruation promoter
• Eases menstrual pain
• May lower blood pressure
• May help to treat asthma

Black cohosh has been clinically proven to be a suitable alternative to hormone replacement therapy, and reduces menopausal symptoms -- such as headaches, heart palpitations, and nervousness – by up to 80 per cent. Black cohosh contains phytoestrogens, an estrogen-like compound produced by plants. The herb is available dried in a capsule or tablet, as a liquid extract, or as a tea.

Black cohosh is powerful but potentially dangerous. Do not use black cohosh if you are pregnant or breast feeding, or if you suffer heavy menstrual bleeding. It can promote miscarriage, but otherwise seems to have few side effects, although a small percentage of women have reported minor stomach upset, dizziness and slight weight gain.