Botanical Name
- Family Berberidaceae
- Caulophyllum thalictroides
Common Names
Cautions
- Do not take during the first three months of pregnancy because of its estrogenic effects.
- It may cause contact dermatitis and may irritate mucous membranes.
- Do not use if there is a history of heart problems.
- Although historically it was used to promote uterine contractions during labor, it should not be used for this purpose as it can be very dangerous if the practitioner is not familiar with the dosage.
Description
The herb grows wild in much of eastern North America from Manitoba to Alabama, preferring woodland valleys, north-facing slopes, and damp banks. It is a perennial, growing to about three feet with large three-lobed leaves, striking purple-blue flowers and deep blue berries. It is gathered mainly from the wild, but it can be cultivated.
Key Actions
- antispasmodic
- antirheumatic
- anti-inflammatory
- diuretic
- promotes menstrual flow
- promotes sweating
- uterine tonic
Key Components
- alkaloids (caulophylline, laburnine, magnoflorine)
- steroidal saponins (caulosapogenin)
- resin
- phytochemicals
- vitamins and minerals (especially iron, manganese, phosphorus, selenium and niacin, riboflavin, and thiamin)
Medicinal Parts
- Root
Traditional Uses
A related Russian species, C. robustum, is thought to have similar properties as the blue cohosh, but it also has fungicidal constituents.
Blue cohosh is still considered to be a “woman’s herb” used to treat a range of gynecological conditions although it is also useful for arthritis.
During labor, it is helpful in improving contractions. It is also used to rectify delayed or irregular menstruation and to alleviate heavy bleeding and pain during menstruation.
In English and American medicine, the herb has been used since the beginning of the 20th century for worm infestation, dehydration, menstrual ailments, and to stimulate contractions.
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