Black Cohosh — FarmPal

A powerful women's herb native to eastern North America. Clinically studied for menopausal hot flash relief. Works on neurotransmitters (not estrogen receptors) to ease hormonal transition.

Scientific Name
Actaea racemosa
Growing Zones
Zones 3-8

Medicinal Properties

Menopausal symptom relief
Anti-inflammatory
Antispasmodic
Mild analgesic
Neurotransmitter modulator

Parts Used

Root
Rhizome

Traditional Uses

  • •Menopausal hot flashes and night sweats
  • •Menstrual cramps (severe)
  • •Muscle and joint pain
  • •Mood disturbances in menopause
  • •Labor preparation (last weeks of pregnancy, with midwife guidance)
  • •Rheumatic pain

Preparations

Tincture

Fill jar 1/3 with dried root, cover with 60% alcohol. 8 weeks minimum.

Dosage: 20-40 drops, 2-3 times daily for menopausal symptoms. Use consistently for 4-8 weeks.

Decoction

Simmer 1-2 teaspoons dried root in 2 cups water for 20-30 minutes.

Dosage: 1/2-1 cup, 2-3 times daily for menstrual cramps

Harvesting Guide

Timing: Harvest roots in fall from plants at least 3-4 years old.

Method: Dig carefully, take only a portion. This plant is at-risk grow your own.

Drying: Wash, slice thin, dry at 95-100°F. Roots are very hard when dry.

⚠️ Cautions

  • •Do not use during pregnancy (except under midwife guidance near term)
  • •Limit use to 6 months at a time
  • •Rare reports of liver irritation discontinue if jaundice or dark urine occurs
  • •At-risk plant: buy cultivated, not wild-harvested
  • •May interact with hormone-sensitive conditions
Storage
Dried root 2-3 years. Tincture 5+ years.