BLUE COHOSH

Latin Name: Caulophyllum thalictroides

Alternate Names: Papoose Root, Squawroot, Beechdrops, Yellow Ginseng, Blueberry Root, Blue Ginseng

Family: BERBERIDACEAE

Parts Used: Rhizome, root.

Properties: Abortifacient, Anthelmintic, Anti-inflammatory, Antirheumatic, Antispasmodic, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Oxytocic, Parturient, Tonic, Uterine Tonic.

Internal Uses: Arthritis, Asthma, Dysmenorrhea, Epilepsy, Expel Placenta, Hypertension, Hysteria, Labor Inducement, Placenta Delivery, Premenstrual Tension, Rheumatism, Spasms

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, capsules.

Blue Cohosh helps to tonify a weak uterus and facilitate labor by promoting regular contractions. The caulosaponin content may contribute to this stimulation.

Energetics: Bitter, Sweet, Warm, Dry.

Chemical Constituents: Alkaloids (caulophylline, baptifoline, laburine magnoflorine), saponins (caulosaponins), resin, gum, starch.

Contraindications: Use dried root, as the fresh plant may cause dermatitis. Avoid during pregnancy until the last month. Excess can cause spastic contractions and joint pain. Can raise blood pressure, cause headache and nausea. Berries are toxic.

Comments: Before the use of forceps, Blue Cohosh was used much in gynecology. Indian women used it to facilitate birthing or to bring on overdue labor and expel the placenta. It was also used as a contraceptive agent by Native Americans.

Blue Cohosh is not related to Black Cohosh. The Algonquin word ‘cohosh’ refers to the gnarled roots of both plants. This herb has been listed by United Plant Savers as an ‘at risk’ plant, so please avoid buying products harvested from the wild. Only use the cultivated herb.