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- Black Cohosh has proven to be one of the most valuable herbs introduced
to early American settlers by North American natives. It was extensively used alone and in
combination with other herbs for a wide range of female complaints and conditions.
Major Constituents:
- Cimicifugin (a resin) and salicylic acid (which acts as an
anti-rheumaic), phytosterols (including an estrogenic principle), tannins and traces of
alkaloids.
Common Use:
- Black Cohosh has been used as a mild relaxant, anti-depressant, nervine,
anti-spasmodic, and a anti-rheumatic. Due to the phyto-estrogenic constituents, this herb
is used primarily as a menstrual aid, especially in conditions related to estrogen
deficiency such as menopause or PMS. Phyto-estrogens bind to cell estrogen receptor sites
and activate the components of estrogen action.
- Estrogen is produced more during the first 14 days of a typical 28 day
menstrual cycle. Progesterone is produced more during the last 14 days. Black Cohosh can
help suppot the estrogen biochemistry, Vitex can be used to support the progesterone
biochemistry, and Dong Quai can be used to support the entire mentral cycle.
[---------------------------------|---------------------------------] |
1 |
14 |
28 |
| Black Cohosh |
Vitex |
[____________________________________________________] |
| Dong Quai |
Note:
- Black Cohosh should not me used in early pregnancy, but could be
considerably useful as a parturient (aiding childbirth) in the last 4 weeks of term. Over
dosage can cause vertigo and irritation of the central nervous system.
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