Blue Cohosh - Caulophyllum Thalictroides

Other Common Names: Aslankulagi, Blue Ginseng, Blueberry Root, Pappoose or Papoose Root, Squawroot, Yellow Ginseng, Caulophyllum thalictroides

Range: Eastern N. America - New Brunswick to South Carolina, Arkansas, North Dakota and Manitoba.

Habitat: Rich moist soils in swamps, by streams and in woods.

Papoose root is a traditional herb of many North American Indian tribes and was used extensively by them to facilitate child birth. Modern herbalists still consider it to be a woman's herb and it is commonly used to treat various gynaecological conditions. An acrid, bitter, warming herb, it stimulates the uterus, reduces inflammation, expels intestinal worms and has diuretic effects.

The root is anthelmintic, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, oxytoxic and sedative. An infusion of the root in warm water is taken for about 2 weeks before the expected birth date in order to ease the birth. This infusion can also be used as an emmenagogue and a uterine stimulant. Papoose root should therefore be used with some caution by women who are in an earlier stage of pregnancy since it can induce a miscarriage or early delivery. The plant is also taken internally in the treatment of pelvic inflammatory disease, rheumatism and gout. It should not be prescribed for people with hypertension and heart diseases. Any use of this plant is best under the supervision of a qualified practitioner.

The roots are normally harvested in the autumn, because they are at their richest at this time, and are dried for later use.

The root harvested in early spring as new growth is beginning is used to make a homeopathic remedy. It is used especially in childbirth and in some forms of rheumatism.

The roasted seed is a coffee substitute. The seeds are about the size of large peas, but are not produced in abundance.

Known Hazards: This plant should not be used during pregnancy prior to the commencement of labour.

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