Bugbane
is also known by the names Bugwort, Black
Cohosh, Rattle Root, Rattleweed, Richweed, and Squaw Root. Bugbane is native
to North America. The genus name Cimicifuga is from the Latin "cimicus",
meaning "insect", and "fugare", meaning "to drive away" (because the plant
tends to drive away insects). Native American Indians valued the herb and
used it for many conditions, ranging from gynecological problems to rattlesnake
bites. For this reason, it is sometimes called Black Snakeroot. Some
nineteenth-century American physicians used Bugbane for problems such as fever,
menstrual cramps, arthritis, and insomnia. Bugbane has been valued by many
societies for its nutritional support for women. A popular herb for women, it
helps restore healthy menses and soothes irritation & congestion of the cervix,
uterus and vagina. Bugbane can also improve circulation and lower blood pressure
by temporarily dilating blood vessels. Typically, the rhizome and root of the
plant are used medicinally. Having effective amounts of calcium, potassium,
magnesium and iron, Bugbane is also an abundant source of estrogenic substances.
Commonly used to relieve arthritis, lower back pain and cramps caused by
menstruation, Bugbane also relieves mucus production, thus easing persistent
coughs caused by asthma, bronchitis and whooping cough. Additionally, Bugbane
has been used to relieve swelling and soreness typical of rheumatism, and it is
also known as safe sedative to relieve both nervousness and anxiety.
