Black cohosh, a member of the buttercup family, grows in North America. Currently, black cohosh is promoted as a dietary supplement for hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. It’s also been promoted for other conditions, including menstrual cramps and premenstrual syndrome, and to induce labor. The part of the black cohosh plant used in herbal preparations is the root or rhizome (underground stem). Take charge of your health but talk with your health care providers about any complementary health approaches you use. Together, you can make shared, well-informed decisions.
Care
Black cohosh has been known to tolerate more light and soil variations provided there is adequate moisture available. In its natural habitat, it is usually found in shaded or partially shaded areas, although it will grow in full sun
Growth Habit
Black cohosh plants can grow as a single or multiple stem, each with three compound leaves containing multiple serrated leaflets. Plants are typically tall in stature, with flowering stalks emerging in mid-summer and reaching heights of 3' to 8'
Toxicity
Cohosh root is considered nontoxic as per the ASPCA toxic plant list. The soy isoflavones similarly aren't a consideration.
