Antispasmodic, alterative, emmenagogue, diuretic, astringent, expectorant, diaphoretic, arterial and nervine sedative, cardiac stimulant, stomachic-tonic and an antiseptic antivenom.

As a cardiac stimulant, black cohosh root slightly depresses the heart rate while it increases the force of the pulse and equalizes circulation. It is a valuable emmenagogue in pelvic disturbances and uterine troubles as it effectively contracts the uterus and increases the menstrual flow. Black cohosh has strong effect on the muscular system, and is used for various forms of rheumatism, arthritis, and neuralgia. It is a viable expectorant for acute chronic pulmonary and bronchial affections. Black cohosh exerts a tonic influence over the mucous and serous tissues, stimulating the secretions of the liver, kidneys and lymph. It also aids digestion. In parturition, black cohosh is helpful in initiating uterine contractions, checking hemorrhage, and allaying the nervousness and afterpains of delivery.

(Cimicifuga racemosa) bugbane, rattle root, black snake root, squaw root

A perennial shrub, 9 feet or more. The creeping, underground stem is gnarled and twisted, topped with a slender spike of small white or yellowish flowers in feathery racemes 1-3 feet long, slender and drooping. Leaves vary from ternate, then pinnate, at times even further divided. Found in eastern, southern part of U.S. in rich open woods.

Historically used as a antispasmodic, astringent, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, hormonal, and sedative. The rhizomes and roots were used by Native Americans to ease childbirth and as an antidote for rattlesnake bite. The Colonists used it for yellow fever, bronchitis coughs, asthma, itching, nervous diseases, uterine disorders, diarrhea, menstrual cramp, rheumatism, childbirth, headaches, coughs and asthma. Take 2-3 table-spoons of the decoction, cold, 6 times a day, or IO-6O drops of the tincture. CAUTION: Large doses can cause symptoms of poisoning, nausea and vomiting.