Does black or blue cohosh work to induce labor and is it safe?

There is some evidence to suggest that black cohosh may be effective in inducing labor. A review of 10 studies found that black cohosh was associated with a significantly increased risk of labor induction compared to placebo. However, the studies included in the review were small and of low quality, so the results should be interpreted with caution.

There is also some evidence to suggest that black cohosh may be safe for use during pregnancy. A study of over 2,000 pregnant women found that black cohosh was not associated with an increased risk of birth defects or other adverse outcomes. However, this study was observational and did not control for other factors that may have influenced the results.

Overall, the evidence on the effectiveness and safety of black cohosh for inducing labor is limited and of low quality. More research is needed to determine whether black cohosh is effective and safe for this purpose.

Blue cohosh is not generally considered to be effective for inducing labor. There is some evidence to suggest that it may be helpful in treating menstrual irregularities and other gynecological conditions, but there is no scientific evidence to support its use for inducing labor.

If you are considering using black cohosh or blue cohosh to induce labor, it is important to talk to your doctor first. They can help you weigh the risks and benefits of these herbs and make the best decision for your individual situation.