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AKA: Papoose Root, Squaw Root, Blue
Ginseng, Yellow Ginseng
Species: Caulophyllum
thalictroides
Active Chemical Component: the
alkaloid N-methylcytisine, glycosides (caulosaponin, caulophyllosaponin),
taspine
Traditionally Used: Blue
Cohosh use can be traced to colonial times as a treatment for rheumatism, colic,
throat ailments, hysteria, and various gynecologic complaints. It has also
been widely used as an emmenagogue and abortifacient. Native Americans
used Blue Cohosh as parturifacient, to ensure an "easy delivery".
Used Today:
Blue Cohosh is
used to treat menstrual disorders. Blue Cohosh is also used by
nurse-midwives in the induction of labor.
What you should know: The glycoside
components, caulosaponin and caulophyllasaponin, have oxytocic effects which
result in uterine stimulation. The use of Blue Cohosh, other than at term,
may result in SAB or preterm labor with prematurity. These glycosides also
exert effects on the heart, causing coronary artery constriction which has been
linked to cardiotoxicity in the infants of mothers who ingested Blue Cohosh
prior to labor. The Journal of Pediatrics reports a case of
neonatal congestive heart failure with subsequent cardiac arrest linked to
maternal ingestion of Blue Cohosh to iniate labor. In addition, the N-methylcytisine and taspine components
have been shown to be teratogenic in rat models. Its effects on the
developing human fetus have not yet been adequately studied. Despite its
efficacy in inducing labor, Blue Cohosh is contraindicated in pregnancy, and its
use should be avoided.
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