blue cohosh

Also called squaw root, the blue cohosh is a flowering plant with blue fruits that resemble berries. According to Wikipedia, this plant has been used as a medical herb by Native Americans and European herbologists “for abortive and contraceptive purposes” (Wikipedia.com). Even the seeds of the blue cohosh have reportedly been used as a substitute for coffee. It is worth noting that this plant is used for many other purposes. According to webmd.com, it is used “for stimulating the uterus and starting labor; starting menstruation; stopping muscle spasms; as a laxative; and for treating colic, sore throat, cramps, hiccups, epilepsy, hysterics, inflammation of the uterus, infection of the female organs (pelvic inflammatory disease), over-growth of uterine tissue (endometriosis), and joint conditions.” However, blue cohosh is not considered a safe plant, not to mention that “there are still no quality clinical trials to support any therapeutic application for it” (quoted from drugs.com). Bear in mind that you should avoid using this plant during pregnancy, considering its adverse effects in newborn infants. In fact, the blue cohosh is “potentially toxic to humans and fetuses”.