What Is Cimicifuga?

Many species of cimicifuga, also known as bugbane or black cohosh, are native to North America. It is an attractive woodland plant that flowers and can be used as a decorative addition to woodland or cottage gardens. Eighteen species of this plant genus are spread around the world. It gets its common name of bugbane from its ability to repel insects. The plant is best known for its many medicinal applications.

Plant Description

• Cimicifuga is a perennial that can grow over 5 feet in height. The three-lobed leaves can be either green or black, depending on the hybrid. Arching wands of tiny fluffy flowers appear in early fall in white or pale pink. The petals themselves are difficult to see; it is the stamens that make the flowers so showy. They grow best in full sun in cooler areas, though they appreciate some shade in hotter climates. They are beautiful when planted in a border or as an accent plant. The fragrant flowers look lovely in bouquets. They are deer- and rabbit-resistant.

History

• In North America, native tribes began using the roots of cimicifuga to treat rheumatism and female conditions. The Iroquois used a root tea as a foot bath. The herb was also recommended as a diuretic and general health tonic. Many native groups used the root to treat menstrual dysfunction and to help during childbirth. References to this herb can be found in American herb books dating back to 1801. Physicians often prescribed this herb during the 1800s as an anti-inflammatory for rheumatism and arthritis, as well as for regulating the menstrual cycle and after pains from birthing. It was also prescribed to calm the nerves. Cimicifuga was included in the United States Pharmacopoeia between the years of 1820 and 1926 under the names of black snakeroot, macrotys, black cohosh and cimicifuga. Dr. John King (1813-1893) taught his obstetrical students about black cohosh as a favorite remedy.

Scientific Research

• Scientific studies on cimicifuga began in the early 1900s. Scientists were able to isolate tannins, sugars, salicylic acid, isoferulic acid, fatty acids and phytosterin from samples. A study from 1944 showed estrogen-like activity in mice when they were given the roots. Studies done in the 1950s and '60s showed more active chemical compounds that explained why the herb worked so well with feminine reproductive systems. In the 1980s, scientists isolated an isoflavone called formononetin. Several chemical compounds easily extracted in alcohol work to treat menopausal symptoms.

Clinical Studies and Uses

• Germany leads the world in herbal studies, including working with cimicifuga. Research there found this herb to improve hot flashes, sleep disturbances and depression symptoms surrounding menopause. The herb affects pituitary hormone levels and reduces the luteinizing hormone (LH) while leaving levels of the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin alone. LH and FSH are primary players in a woman's ovulation cycle, while prolactin stimulates milk production.

Current Uses

• Today, cimicifuga is used by herbalists and naturopaths to manage female hormone dysfunctions. It is recommended to ease menopausal symptoms because of its estrogen-like actions. It is growing in popularity with many alternative therapists and may even be prescribed by physicians who are familiar with its benefits.