Blue and Black CohoshBlue Cohosh and Pregnancy
Both blue and black cohosh are herbs that have been used for centuries to induce labor. Meaning, they are believed to be able to start contractions. Some natural birth advocates, therefore, recommend these herbs as a "natural" way to induce a woman into labor. However, we at Nutritional Supplement Info certainly do not recommend you use these herbs in such a way without speaking with a qualified health professional first. In fact, it's unwise for any woman to be using herbal remedies of any kind during pregnancy unless carefully discussing potential side effects with a doctor and qualified herbalist. Blue cohosh and pregnancy... Out of the two herbs, blue cohosh is said to be more effective at inducing labor, but we have found no evidence whether this is true or not. But regardless if it's true or not, it seems that blue cohosh and pregnancy is searched for more by women because of the common perceptive that it is more effective for labor. Other uses for both blue and black cohosh include alleviating some of the symptoms of menopause. Blue cohosh is also a uterine tonic and has anti-spasmodic effects...and therefore, is used sometimes by midwives to help lessen labor pains. Other uses in history (especially among the Indians) have been: to alleviate sore throat and certain pains, such as rheumatic (arthritis) or menstrual pains and cramps. To learn more about black cohosh, click here. Blue cohosh has sometimes been used to attempt a "natural abortion" by women up until the 6th week of pregnancy. However, we can find no convincing evidence that it actually works for this purpose. Some anecdotal reports claim it does while others have had no success in this regard. In either case, we certainly wouldn't recommend it be used for an attempted abortion. Side EffectsBlue and black cohosh should not be used with anyone with a medical condition, especially: heart conditions, high blood pressure, diabetes, glaucoma, and a family history of stroke. Some reported side effects (though rare) have included: nausea, vomiting, dizziness and headaches.
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