Drinking black cohosh tea is a popular practice in many parts of the world, and can deliver a number of surprising health benefits! It is a natural sedative, relieves menopause and inflammation, eases pre-menstrual syndrome, lowers cholesterol levels, and has traditionally been used to induce labor.
What is Black Cohosh Tea?
Black cohosh tea is an herbal tea brewed from the powdered roots or extract of the black cohosh plant, which is scientifically known as Actaea racemosa. [1] The taste of this tea is slightly bitter and should be sweetened to be more palatable. When the long roots of this plant are powdered or used to brew tea, it can release many antioxidants and active ingredients that are beneficial for overall health, including caffeic acid, actein and other glycosides and volatile compounds.
Native to Canada and the southern United States, this plant was first used by Native Americans, and can also provide a wealth of nutrients and minerals, such as manganese, selenium, silicon, zinc, vitamin C and various B vitamins. Black cohosh tea contains no caffeine. Black cohosh contains phytoestrogen, similar to estrogen, which is a major reason why it is cherished around the world for treating female health problems. For people who do not wish to drink the tea, a supplemental form is also available, which makes it easier for consumption as a medicine. [2] [3]
Black cohosh is used in traditional medicine. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Black Cohosh Tea Benefits
Let’s have a look at the benefits of this tea in detail.
Eases Pre-menstrual Syndrome
Black cohosh is known for its sedative and anti-inflammatory properties for a long time. It helps in treating the pain and stress of PMS. Regular consumption of black cohosh tea can help you drive away the painful cramps and mood swings and can also regulate the hormonal cycle as well, thus easing the menstruation. [4]
Relieves Menopause
Black cohosh tea helps to stimulate the estrogen levels, which proves beneficial for hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and depression. It acts as an adrenal tonic to relieve you from the stress caused by menopause. [5] [6]
Natural Sedative
As a natural sedative, this tea is known to prevent symptoms of depression and anxiety, while aiding sleep and restorative sleep. It also relieves headaches and improves your mood. [7] [8]
Relieves Inflammation
Black cohosh tea effectively reduces spasms and muscle tension. It relieves the pain and improves blood flow, thereby helping the body flush out toxins that cause inflammation. It is a well-known remedy for osteoarthritis. This tea is well-known for its anti-arthritic properties. It treats the rheumatic pain, especially in the elderly, and reduces joint pain. [9]
Lowers Cholesterol Levels
This tea is great for keeping your heart in a healthy state. A cup of black cohosh tea is all you need to reduce your LDL cholesterol levels. [10]
Induces Labor
This tea induces labor and is recommended for pregnant women in their third trimester. However, some experts feel that pregnant women should use black cohosh with caution during pregnancy. Always talk to your doctor before trying any herbal supplements during pregnancy. [11] [12]
How to make Black Cohosh Tea?
Black cohosh tea is easy to make at home and takes just a few minutes.
Comforting Black Cohosh Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 black cohosh root
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp Dried ginger
- Honey to taste
Instructions
- Finely slice and chop the root of the black cohosh plant.
- Bring the water to a boil on the stove.
- Pour the boiled water in a jar or glass
- Add black cohosh root to the water and let it steep for 3 minutes. For more intense flavor you can steep it for 5-8 minutes.
- Add dried ginger halfway through the brewing process.
- Strain out the ginger and black cohosh and serve hot.
- Add honey, if desired, for flavor.
Notes
Black Cohosh Tea Side Effects
Super tea, isn’t it? But as always there are two sides to everything. It is always good to know the side effects of using this powerful herbal tea.
- Excess intake of black cohosh tea can slow down the heart rate, and cause nausea and intestinal distress.
- If you are suffering from cancer or are on a medication for other problems, consult your doctor before trying out this herbal tea.
- In extreme cases, it may cause tremors, liver toxicity, vomiting, and dizziness.
- Black cohosh tea is a uterine stimulant. So for women taking birth control medicines consult a doctor before use.
- Avoid intake during breastfeeding because the effects of the herb could pass on to your baby through your milk. If you are pregnant, it is best to avoid the use of this tea. [13]
- This tea should not be given to children as it can lead to many side effects.
- Other side effects include headaches, gastrointestinal distress, low blood pressure and sweating.
