Black Cohosh is native to North America, where it grows freely in shady woods in Canada and the United States. It is a tall, herbaceous plant, with feathery racemes of white blossoms. The root of this plant is much used in America in many disorders, and is supposed to be an antidote against poison and the bite of the rattlesnake. Herbal researcher Dr. James Duke has this to say about Black Cohosh; "Black Cohosh really should be better known in this country, especially with our aging population and the millions of women who are now facing menopause. Recognized for it's mild sedative and anti-inflammatory activity, Black Cohosh can help with hot flashes and other symptoms associated with that dramatic change of life called menopause. It's also reported to have some estrogenic activity. Native Americans used the roots and rhizomes of this member of the buttercup family to treat kidney ailments, malaria, rheumatism, and sore throats. Early American settlers turned to it for bronchitis, dropsy, fever, hysteria and nervous disorders, lumbago, and yellow fever. It's also reportedly well known for easing PMS and menstrual irregularities." This estrogenic activity, notes Dr. Duke, can contribute to a "mastogenic" effect; the natural enlargement of the breasts.
