BLUE COHOSH - Herbal Labor Inducer

Family: Berberidaceae; other members include may apple, mandrake, barberry
Genus and species: Caullophyllum thalictroides
Also known as: Papoose root, blue berry
Parts used: Root

The Indians called blue cohosh papoose root, believing it triggered labor and hastened childbirth. They were right. Science shows that an active substance found in blue cohosh can induce labor. This substance is so powerful, in fact, that the herb should be used only under medical supervision.

Blue cohosh is not related to black cohosh – they belong to different botanical families. But the Indians used both as gynecological herbs and called them both cohosh, Algonquian, for “rough”, because they both have gnarled roots. The “blue” refers to this herb’s bluish stem and dark blue berries.

HEALING with Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh’s traditional uses in gynecology appear to stand up to scientific scrutiny.
1. Labor Inducer. Researchers have discovered a chemical (caulosaponin) in blue cohosh that provokes strong uterine contractions, thus supporting its primary Indian use. Should be used under strict medical supervision. If you’d like to use it at term, discuss your desire with your obstetrician and/or midwife and use it only with your doctor’s consent and supervision.
2. Menstruation Promotion. As a powerful uterine stimulant, blue cohosh could certainly trigger menstruation. But women should not use it for this purpose. It’s too powerful, and its side effects are potentially too serious.
3. Intriguing Possibilities. Researchers in India have discovered tantalizing evidence that the American Indians may have been on the right track in using blue cohosh as a contraceptive. In animals, the herb inhibits ovulation, according to a report. European researchers have identified some antibiotic and immune-stimulating properties in blue cohosh, possibly explaining its use by Eclectic physicians for bladder and kidney infections. Finally, it also has an anti-inflammatory activity, lending credence to its traditional use for arthritis.
4. Dead-End File. Despite its traditional reputation as a treatment for high blood pressure, studies show blue cohosh is more likely to cause this serious condition than treat it.

Rx for Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh is a powerful herb that should be administered by a physician. The decoction tastes initially somewhat sweet, then bitter and unpleasant.

SAFETY FACTOR
No one with high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, glaucoma or a history of stroke should use blue cohosh.
When powdered, its root irritates mucous membranes. Handle with care. Take care not to inhale any or introduce it into your eyes.
Blue cohosh should be used only at term to induce labor, and then only under medical supervision.

Ref: Healing Herbs by Michael Castleman, 1991.