Botanical Overview
Actaea racemosa, commonly known as Black cohosh, Black snakeroot, and Squaw root, belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. The medicinal parts used are primarily the root and rhizome. This plant is native to Eastern North America and has been traditionally used by Native American and Western herbalists.
Energetics
Black cohosh is considered energetically neutral in temperature and moisture with bitter and astringent tastes. It has a relaxing tonicity and primarily influences the qi aspect in traditional energetics.
Primary Actions
- Emmenagogue
- Hormone modulator
- Anti-inflammatory
- Nervine
- Sedative
- Spasmolytic
Indications
Western
- Menopausal hot flashes
- Premenstrual syndrome
- Menstrual cramps
- Nervous tension
- Rheumatic pain
Syndromes
- Menopause and perimenopausal symptoms
- Menstrual irregularities
- Mild anxiety and nervous tension
- Rheumatism
TCM
No traditional usage documented.
Ayurveda
No traditional usage documented.
Unani
No traditional usage documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Actaea racemosa contains triterpene glycosides (such as cimicifugoside and actein), isoferulic acid, phenolic acids, and flavonoids, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, and hormone-modulating effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Tincture 1:5 40% ethanol, 2–4 mL, 1–3 times daily
- Extract standardized to 2.5% triterpene glycosides, 40–80 mg daily
- Infusion from 1–2 g dried root, 1–2 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Black cohosh should be used cautiously during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is contraindicated in pregnancy, lactation, hormone-sensitive cancers, and liver disease. Rare hepatotoxicity cases have been reported; liver function monitoring is advised for prolonged use. Potential interactions with hormone therapies and hepatotoxic drugs exist.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable planetary or elemental rulers available from credible esoteric sources.
Selected References
- Assessment report on Actaea racemosa L., rhizoma – European Medicines Agency (EMA) HMPC, 2015
- Black cohosh (Actaea racemosa) for menopausal symptoms: a systematic review and meta-analysis – Leach MJ et al., 2015
- Actaea racemosa Monograph – Plants For A Future (PFAF)
- Black Cohosh – NIH National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, 2021