Blue Cohosh

Herbal Constituents and Uses | Contraindications

Common Name:	Blue Cohosh	Photo Gallery
Genus / Species:	Caulophyllum thalictroides
Part Used:	Root/rhizome
Energetics:	Acrid, bitter, warm, mildly toxic
Meridians:	Liver
Active Constituents	Alkaloids including caulophylline, laburnine and magnoflorine Steroidal saponins including caulosapogenin. Teratoteygenic properties Resin
Medicinal Use:	Antispasmodic Diuretic Promotes menstrual flow Uterine tonic Antirheumatic Increases sweating Anti-inflammatory
Dose:	Decoction or tincture S.F. Tincture 5 drops, 1 or 2 times daily. D.H. Tincture 1-2ml, 3 times daily. Decoction 1 teaspoon of dried root in cup of water, 3 times daily.

Contraindications

1) This herb is known to be toxic in excessive doses, symptom include headaches, vomiting, muscle weakness, convulsions and in severs cases cardio vascular collapse, mainly with children eating the seeds of this herb.
2) Do not use this herb during pregnancy due to its emmenagogue effects. E. The presence of saponins suggests that it may also stimulate the uterus. S
3) Prolonged use of this herb may increase blood pressure, therefore do not use in cases of high blood pressure.
4) The powdered root may be irritating to mucous membranes.

NOTE: This herb is under scrutiny and should be used with caution until we know more. Do not use in last stages of pregnancy as often suggested in the past. Do not mix with Black cohosh.

The information contained in these pages is an indication of possible contraindications, but if you are at all concerned about any herb and its suitability for personal use please contact a herbal practitioner in your area or contact us.