Cohosh is a Native American word for "rough", referring to the knobby rhizome, which is the useful part. Black Cohosh has been used in Native American medicine for centuries and was used also used by European settlers.
 
Medicinal Use: Though not conclusive, some research has found that Black Cohosh helps alleviate both the physical and psychological symptoms of menopause, including anxiety, vaginal dryness, and hot flashes. Other studies have shown that the herb is useful in treating the premenstrual discomfort provoked by hormonal changes, including irritability and depression. Black Cohosh is also an excellent nervine and offers pain relief from general rheumatic pains, such as arise from changing weather, or those that are associated with the flu.
 
Magickal Use: Black Cohosh is a powerful herb for protection. It has long been used to prevent Evil from Entering the Home. Some carry it for Protection from Harm and to Ward Off Unnatural Illness. Others sprinkle it outside the house to Take Off Bad Work and Undo Crossing Marks. It may be made into a tea which is added to floor wash to get rid of Jinxes and enemy tricks laid on the door-step. 
 
Also Called: Black Snake Root, Bugbane, Squawroot, Bugwort, Rattleroot, Rattleweed, Rattlesnake Root, Richweed