- Ranunculaceae
- Rhizome and root
- Eastern North America
- Dried root, for decoction
Black Cohosh
Actaea racemosa
Select sizeThe plant
Black cohosh is a tall woodland plant in the buttercup family, native to North America. It sends up elegant white flower spikes, while the dark root and underground stem are used in herbal preparations.
What's in it
Triterpene glycosides are naturally occurring root compounds with sugar units attached. They are among the substances used to identify and study black cohosh extracts. Together, these compounds form the root’s natural chemical profile.
Triterpene glycosides
Actein and cimicifugoside. The marker compounds used for grading.
Cinnamic acid esters
Including fukinolic acid, largely unique to the genus.
Isoflavones
Present only in trace amounts — far less than once assumed.
Salicylic acid
Small quantities, shared with willow bark.
How it works
Midlife wellbeing: Black cohosh has a longstanding reputation as a women’s herb, particularly during the transition through menopause. How it is taken: Preparations of the root are traditionally taken by women through the menopause transition, and that association is the main reason the herb is recognised today. In the UK some black cohosh products are registered as traditional herbal medicines and carry a THR number; what we sell is a herb, not a registered medicine. Traditional support: The root is valued in women’s herbal practice for comfort during this changing stage of life. Select and use the appropriate preparation with qualified herbal guidance.
In the tradition
Native American communities used black cohosh in a range of traditional preparations. It later became an established women’s herb in North American and European practice.
Its tall, wand-like white flower spikes can reach well above the forest floor, earning the plant another common name: fairy candle.
- 1Simmer 1–2 tsp of dried black cohosh in 500ml water for 15–20 mins, then strain.
- 2Drink 1–2 cups daily.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Best used within 12–24 months.
- Not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Check before use with liver concerns, hormone-sensitive conditions, or medicines.
- On HRT or hormonal medication: check with doctor.
- Children.
A food supplement, not a substitute for a varied diet. Speak to your doctor before use if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication.
Common questions
How do I prepare black cohosh?
Black Cohosh is simmered as a decoction rather than steeped. Simmer 1–2 tsp of dried black cohosh in 500ml water for 15–20 mins, then strain. Full directions are in the How to use panel above. See also: Infusion vs decoction.
What is black cohosh?
Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa) belongs to the Ranunculaceae family; the rhizome and root are used. Origin: Eastern North America. A well-known North American root traditionally chosen by women looking for support through the changes of midlife.
How should I store dried black cohosh?
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Best used within 12–24 months.
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