While blue and black cohosh sound similar, they are unrelated herbs. Black cohosh, actaea racemosa or cimicifuga racemosa in scientific terms, is native to America and may act in ways similar to estrogen in some people. Blue cohosh, or caulophyllum thalictroides, also has properties similar to estrogen. Both black and blue cohosh are commonly used for women's health concerns, mainly for the uterus and other areas of the reproductive system.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is a perennial plant native to North America. It is related to the buttercup, and also known as rattlesnake root, rattle root and squawroot. Native Americans have used this herb medicinally for women's health and hormonal concerns for more than 200 years, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Black cohosh has been in common use in Europe since the 1950s.
Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh root, also called papoose root, blueberry root or squawroot, grows in moist soil, near swamps or streams. The root of the plant is used for tinctures, but the seeds may be ground and brewed into a coffee-like beverage. Blue cohosh is less commonly used medicinally than black cohosh; however, it may be used as a uterine stimulant, a laxative and for joint conditions, according to WebMD.
Uses
While both black and blue cohosh are typically associated with women's health, they have distinctly different functions. Black cohosh is recognized by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology as an effective treatment for the symptoms of menopause, according to the University of Maryland, but may also be used for pre-menstrual syndrome, cramps, and late in pregnancy. Blue cohosh is used to induce labor or bring on a late menstrual period, according to WebMD.
Long Term Usage
According to the National Institutes of Health, few adverse effects have been reported when black cohosh is used for less than six months. Long-term use has not been studied; however, the potential for estrogen-like functions does pose a potential risk for breast or uterine conditions. A few instances of liver failure or damage have been reported, so users should be watchful for signs of jaundice, according to the National Institutes of Health. Significantly less information is available on blue cohosh, and it is not indicated for long term usage.
Pregnancy
Both black and blue cohosh may be used in late pregnancy and are favored for labor induction by some midwives. According to the National Institutes of Health, adverse outcomes have been reported at births induced with these herbal preparations. According to WebMD, blue cohosh may narrow the blood vessels carrying blood to the heart. While black and blue cohosh have a traditional use in pregnancy, they should only be taken under the supervision of a trained professional with careful monitoring.
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