Hello again, and welcome back to part 4 of the Top 40 Herbs of North America. Today we will be talking about Black Cohosh!

Black Cohosh is known to contain vitamins A and B5, but is more mineral rich overall, particularly in many of the electrolyte minerals(Calcium, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium) and Iron.  It has also long been thought to contain phytoestrogens, but modern research suggests this may not be the case.

Generally, Black Cohosh has been considered a “female” herb, as the majority of its uses have been for complaints associated with the biological female experience throughout life.  While powerful, Black Cohosh prefers to be a key supporting actress among a cast of other herbs which help to direct her towards an intended action in the body.

She is most known for her role through the season of menopause in a woman’s life.  Black Cohosh is known to assist with easing some of the symptoms associated with this transition, especially hot flashes.  Something about this herb can bind to estrogen receptors throughout the body, and discourage the production of other sex hormones which are associated with the onset of hot flashes.  For best results during this season of transition, Black Cohosh prefers to be partnered with her twin sister, Blue Cohosh.

Our founder has always considered Black Cohosh to be a “water-loving” herb.  While it can be taken in capsules, it would seem that the body responds best when it is taken with plenty of water or prepared as an infusion, extraction, or tincture.