Black Cohash (cimicifuga Racemosa) habitat ranging from Canada to the Eastern united states is a species in the buttercup family.
This herb is used in traditional Chinese medicine for asthma and rheumatoid arthritis but more commonly in the united states and west it is used by women for menstrual cramps. However in addition it has mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties and is used for back pain and to relieve muscle tightness, cramps, spasms, and stress. It also has a mild sedative quality. The medicinal property of this plant comes from its rhizome.
There are several methods, depending on the amount and strength you want to make this tincture or spirit of Black Cohash. However the one listed is the one I am currently using.
You will need a medium sized jar with a lid or container with a lid, preferably 6-8 oz. would be preferable.
About 6 Oz. of 80 or 100 proof Vodka (Depending on your potency, I am using 80 proof)
1/2 Oz. Black Cohash Root
Muskin strainer bag or cheese cloth
Take the the half ounce of Black Cohash and place it in the jar or container. Then take your vodka and fill the jar up to the fill line or about a quarter of an inch to the top. Take a spoon, fork, or stirring utensil of some kind and sit it thoroughly. Then replace the lid on your jar or container, tighten firmly, and shake it up for about a minute or two.
Here's the not so fun part. Now you will have to let the mixture sit for six weeks, some people say three weeks, but the potency will be weak. Each day you should give it a shake several times a day.
When the six weeks are over your tincture is ready to be strained. You should take the mixture, strain it into a bowl making sure to squeeze and press the mixture until all you have in the bowl is the tincture liquid. Once you strain and press the tincture you can store it back in the cleaned out jar, and keep a small amount in a amber dropper bottle or whatever you wish.
Standard dosage: 10-40 drops twice daily mix in your favorite tea, or mix with a class of water to drink. For taste add a small amount of stevia or agave sweetener.
Caution: Do not take during first trimester of pregnancy. Do not take the full dosage for more than two weeks at a time. Meaning do not take 40 drops twice a day for more than two weeks straight. I only recommend taking the full dose as needed for pain, spasms, or tension. Then if need be take one dose of 10-15 drops daily.Seek medical advice if taking any kind of supplemental hormone regimens.
I hope you all find this useful, Blessings and be well,