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black cohosh - cimicifuga racemosa - inflorescence

Black cohosh, Actaea, Cimicifuga racemosa

Black cohosh, Cimicifuga or Actaea racemosa, has a special place in this plant vademecum. As a rule, I prefer to use native plants as much as possible. Or, if that is not an option, plants that have been established here for so long that most people cannot even remember they originated elsewhere
I make an exception for this beauty, because I have managed to improve the lives of women with this plant often, on its own or in combination with chaste tree.

Medicinal properties of black cohosh, Cimicifuga racemosa

Black cohosh is a powerhouse when it comes to numerous complaints related menstruation and menopause. It is a useful plant to regulate contractions. In this monograph, I will discuss plenty more indications against which black cohosh works. Think of inflammation of the airways and rheumatic diseases.

Magical properties

Magically, black cohosh certainly works a charm. Because of this plant’s exotic nature, I do not use it in my magical practice myself. However, in this chapter I will certainly identify and discuss customs that are known to me for those who would like to apply this plant magically.
Did I mention that black cohosh is as pretty as a picture? Not surprising that it is a popular ornamental plant in Europe nowadays…

Botanical description Black cohosh, Cimicifuga racemosa, Actaea racemosa

Black cohosh is a large plant that can grow up to three metres high. It has a black, woody rhizome that creeps, from which its nickname black snakeroot originated. A sturdy, square stem grows from the rhizome.

The dark green leaves vary in size according to their position along the stem. The lower leaves can grow up to a metre long. The leaves are trifoliate and have a roughly serrated margin.

The inflorescence is striking and consists of long, graceful spikes with creamy white flowers. The flowers have no petals or sepals, but consist of numerous stamens. The flowers smell sweet, but not in a pleasant way if you ask me. After flowering, egg-shaped capsules containing flat brown seeds appear.

Interesting facts

Black cohosh has an insect repellent effect, both fresh and dried. This characteristic inspired its Latin name Cimicifuga.

The nickname black snakeroot comes from the plant’s appearance. The root is black and sinuous. Plus, the plant was used against snake bites in the past.

The heracleifola and foetida variants are actionable for the applications mentioned in this monograph as well.

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