Beechdrops, Blueberry, Blue Ginseng, Papoose Root, Squaw Root, Yellow
Ginseng.
Description
Blue Cohosh is a perennial plant native to North
America. It grows in abundance near streams, swamps, and
wetlands. The blue-purple stem produces a single large leaf, but in the summer
it produces 3 branches with 3 compound leaves on each and a dark blue pea size
fruit.
Classification
Dry
Taste
Balance Yin/Yang
Cooling
Humor
Uses/Applications
Use Blue Cohosh to treat of diarrhea, stomach cramps, vomiting, colic, asthma,
and nervous cough. It is also used to regulate menstrual flow, induce labour cramps, and ease
false labour pains.
Combinations
To strengthen the uterus combine with False Unicorn Root, Motherwort, or
Yarrow.
Put 1 Tsp. dried root in a cup of water. Bring to a boil, then simmer
for 10 minutes. Take three times per day.
Infusion
Pour 1 liter boiling water onto 56 gr. rootstock. Infuse 30
minutes. Take
2 Tbsp. every 3 hours.
Tincture
Take 1 - 2 ml. three times per day.
Growing Directions
Blue Cohosh is not considered a garden herb. Sow the seeds when they are
ripe in the fall. They will usually germinate the following spring, however it may take up to
a year. Blue
Cohosh requires a rich, moist, humus soil, shade.
History
The Indians called Blue Cohosh, Papoose Root which was used to stimulate labour
and as a contraceptive. From 1882 to 1905 it was listed in the US Pharmacopoeia as a labour
inducer.
Additional Information
1. Research shows this herb inhibits ovulation in
animals. A fact Native Indians must have been aware of as they used it as a
contraceptive.
2. Research also shows that it is a powerful uterine stimulant that can
trigger an abortion, but it should not be used for this purpose as the side effects are
serious
3. Research has isolated alkaloids and methyclctisine which stimulates
intestinal activity, raise respiration, and elevated blood pressure.
Cautions
1. May cause high blood pressure.
2. Do not use in the early stages of pregnancy.
3. Do not use if you have high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, or
glaucoma.
4. Powdered Blue Cohosh root irritates mucous
membranes. Do not inhale or expose eyes.
