What is Blue Cohosh? Blue Cohosh herbs should not be confused with Black Cohosh, though both have a strong effect on the uterus. The Blue Cohosh, like the Black one is a powerful ally for women as it was used by native Indians to treat a host of uterine-related problems. The wise Chippewa women used it as a natural contraceptive. The roots and rhizome of the plant was used to regulate the menstrual cycle and bring down the intensity of menstrual cramps and pain. As a general health tonic for women, it is believed to revitalize and nourish the uterine tissues. How Does Blue Cohosh Help Pregnancy? According to Native Indian Americans, Blue Cohosh herbs contain a substance that allows it to ease the birthing process and induce pain-free labor. Therefore it was often used in the last 2-3 weeks of pregnancy to give the uterus a final toning. The Blue Cohosh is used throughout the birthing process since it can help deliver a retained placenta and can also stop or limit the intensity of bleeding after labor. Because of these beneficial effects, midwives often used a combination of Blue and Black Cohosh.
Blue Cohosh is considered to contain two substances that directly affect the uterus – an oxytocin, which causes the uterus to contract and is naturally produced by the body at the time of childbirth; and Caulosaponin, which is unique to Blue Cohosh and is responsible for further uterine contractions. Other Uses of Blue Cohosh Once upon a time, Blue Cohosh was also used to relieve pain caused by spasms in conditions such as colic, epilepsy and sore throat. More recently, researchers in Europe have been able to identify certain antibiotic properties that help stimulate the immune system. They are therefore researching the beneficial effects of the herb on bladder and kidney infections. Like Black Cohosh, Blue cohosh has strong estrogenic properties and should be used with care. The herb is capable of inducing strong estrogen-like effects. People allergic to the Pill should stay away from Black and Blue Cohosh alike. Pregnant women and lactating mothers definitely should stay away from this herb. Blue Cohosh Cautions Blue Cohosh can irritate the mucosal membranes in the body. It must also be avoided by people who suffer from heart diseases, diabetes or high blood pressure. In the case of patients suffering from low blood pressure, Blue Cohosh can cause a further drop in pressure. If you take the herb, be sure to take in plenty of water too. Because of its tendency to cause uterine contractions, the plant is not advisable for women in the early stages of their pregnancy. Children, mistaking the berries for blueberries have been poisoned by the berries of this plant. Blue Cohosh is a perennial herb that grows almost up to 2 feet high. The smooth stems and leaves of the plant are covered with a bluish film. The plant is propagated using the ripe fresh seed of the plant and is usually planted during the fall. The plant is commonly seen as an ornamental plant in gardens, though it is best avoided if you have small children.
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