What are blue cohosh supplements?
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Stacy Wiegman answered:Supplements of blue cohosh, also known as squaw root or blue ginseng and scientifically as Caulophyllum thalictroides, are made from the stem and root of the blue cohosh herb. They are taken to cause uterine contractions, which may make a pregnant woman go into labor or prompt menstruation. Blue cohosh is also used to soothe colic, cramps or a sore throat and as a laxative.
Blue cohosh has been commonly used by midwives to aid labor, but because the herb can be very dangerous to both mother and child, some experts say it should not be available without a prescription and even then should be used only under medical supervision.
Blue cohosh should not be confused with black or white cohosh, which have different actions in your body.Supplements of blue cohosh, also known as squaw root or blue ginseng and scientifically as Caulophyllum thalictroides, are made from the stem and root of the blue cohosh herb. They are taken to cause uterine contractions, which may make a... More -
Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)has been used for hundreds of years primarily to help women in the area of childbirth. It was used as a medicinal herb by Native American women to facilitate labor. Today, the herb is most commonly used to stimulate labor and to ease the effects of childbirth.Modern herbalists often recommend blue cohosh as an emmenagogue to induce menstruation, and as a uterine stimulant and antispasmodic. It is also frequently employed as a diuretic to eliminate excess fluids, as an expectorant to treat congestion, and as a diaphoretic to eliminate toxins by inducing sweating. Traditional herbalists will often combine blue cohosh and black cohosh to effect a more balanced treatment for nerves and to enhance the herbs' antispasmodic effects. Blue cohosh is combined with other herbs to promote their effects in treating bronchitis, nervous disorders, urinary tract ailments, and rheumatism. Blue cohosh is also thought to help pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, erratic menstruation, and retained placenta. In addition, the herb is also believed to relieve ovarian neuralgia (nerve pain).
Although blue cohosh has been indicated for many conditions, all indications lack sufficient scientific data to support their efficacy and safety at this time. More research is needed in these areas before firm conclusions can be drawn.
You should read product labels, and discuss all therapies with a qualified healthcare provider. Natural Standard information does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Blue cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)has been used for hundreds of years primarily to help women in the area of childbirth. It was used as a medicinal herb by Native American women to facilitate labor. Today, the herb is most commonly used to... More
