Blue Cohosh Root cut

Use only the dried root, as the fresh plant may cause dermatitis and the berries are toxic. Avoid its use during pregnancy until the onset of labor or until labor is overdue, and then use only under the guidance of a qualified health-care pro- fessional. Longterm use or large doses can cause spastic contractions, tachy- cardia, hypertension, respiratory depression, nausea, vomiting, uncoor- dination, pupil dilation, and joint pain. As blue cohosh can increase blood sup- ply to the pelvis, it should not be used in cases of heavy menstrual bleeding.

1.  English: beechdrops, blueberry root, blue ginseng, papoose root, squaw root, yellow ginseng 
2. French: cohost bleu 
3. German: blauer hahnenfuss, frauenwurzel, stengelblett 
4. Russian: steblelist moshny 
5. Spanish: caulofilo, cohosh azul    

 Rhizome

Anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, nervine, parturient, tonic, uterine tonic 

Several Native American tribes used blue cohosh for gynaecological concerns. The Fox, Menominee, and Ojibwa peoples used it to relieve menstrual cramps.

The Cherokee and Potawatomi used it to facilitate birthing, bring on unpaid labour, and encourage the expulsion of the placenta.

The herb was also used as a contraceptive agent. It was widely used by the Eclectic physicians of the late 1800s and 1900s and was included in the United States Pharmacopeia from 1882 till 1905 as a labour stimulant. 

The herb is known to tonify uterine tissues. When used during delivery, it helps stretch the neck of the uterus and increases the strength of labour contractions, making labour easier.

In addition, blue cohosh has long been used in treatments for arthritis, bladder irritation, epilepsy, hypertension, hysteria, irregular menses, menstrual cramps, premenstrual tension, rheumatism, and spasms. 

The rhizome is not considered edible, aside from as tea. The roasted seeds have seen use as a coffee substitute, though they should not be eaten raw, as they are mildly toxic.  Other Uses Some Native American peoples used blue cohosh as a protective charm for children.