Actaea racemosa
Black Cohosh
Ranunculaceae
At a Glance
- Common name
- Black Cohosh
- Scientific name
- Actaea racemosa
- Family
- Ranunculaceae
- Region
- North America
- Plant part
- Rhizome, Root
- Caffeine
- Caffeine Free
- Evidence
- Limited
- Safety review
- Safety information on file
Safety & Cautions
Safety information on fileBotanical Description
A tall woodland perennial with deeply divided toothed leaves and a long slender wand of fluffy white feathery flower spikes; the thick dark knobby rhizome is medicinal.
Also known as: Cimicifuga, Black Bugbane, Black Snakeroot
Historical Background
Black cohosh (black bugbane) has been used by Native American peoples of eastern North America for centuries for women's and rheumatic concerns, later carried into 19th-century Eclectic medicine. Its knobby root is decocted for a respected but cautionary place in women's herbalism.
Earliest recorded uses: Native American traditions for centuries; adopted into 19th-century Eclectic medicine as a women's herb.
Traditional preparations:
- Root decoction
- Women's formula with dong quai
- Short-term menopausal tea
Traditional Uses
These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.
Native American Traditions
Women's health and rheumatic comfort root decoction.
Modern Herbalism
Menopausal and women's nervine tonic.
Flavor & Aroma
Aroma: Earth, slightly bitter, green
Tea Preparation
Modern Evidence
Black cohosh has a tradition for menopausal symptoms; trial results are mixed and inconclusive, and rare serious liver injury has been reported. It is not a treatment for menopause, PMS, or any disease and should be used only with clinician guidance and liver monitoring.
Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.
Related Herbs
Entry last updated August 4, 2026