Yeah, make sure you are NOT PREGNANT before having this tea!

I'll post colser to the event or bump....I just got excited that it worked today :)

Another useful wikipedia entry. Again, if you plan to use this, do your research.

"Herbal use

Black cohosh has been included in herbal compounds or dietary supplements marketed to women as remedies for the symptoms of premenstrual tension, menopause and other gynecological problems. However, its usage for treating these ailments is controversial, with a recent study conducted with a large group of participants and a range of black cohosh formulations casting doubt on its efficacy, since biological effects of some black cohosh preparations were not performing better than placebo. [2] Study design and dosage of black cohosh preparations play a role in clinical outcome,[3] and recent investigations with pure compounds found in black cohosh have identified some beneficial effects of these compounds on physiological pathways underlying age-related disorders like osteoporosis.[4]

Because of some physiological effects of black cohosh extracts, it was originally thought these extracts contained estrogen-like compounds. Recent research, however, suggests that these biological effects may in part be due to binding activities to serotonin receptors, [5] and a derivative of serotonin with high affinity for binding to serotonin receptors has been identified in black cohosh. [6] Native Americans used black cohosh to treat gynecological and other disorders, including sore throats, kidney problems, and depression. Black cohosh has also been used as an abortifacient (see side effects).

Like most plants, black cohosh contains a very large number of organic compounds with biological activity. [3] Complex biological molecules, such as triterpene glycosides (e.g. cycloartanes), have been shown to reduce cytokine-induced bone loss (osteoporosis) by blocking osteoclastogenesis in in vitro and in vivo models, [4] suggesting that application of black cohosh-produced compounds may aid treatments of this common ailment in humans.

Side effects

Studies carried out with human subjects who were administered two commercially available black cohosh preparations, did not detect estrogenic effects on the breast,[7] suggesting absence of estrogenic activity in pure black cohosh-based formulations as a cause of side effects.

Black cohosh produces endometrial stimulation.[citation needed] Since black cohosh increases blood flow to the pelvic area, its use is not recommended during menses as it may increase or prolong bleeding.[citation needed] It should be used with caution after usage for six months.[8] Additionally, black cohosh contains tannins, which may inhibit iron absorption.[9]

No studies have been published on long-term safety in humans.[10] However some studies have suggested that long-term use may promote metastasis of cancer tissue. Using transgenic mice as a model, researchers found that black cohosh did not increase incidence of primary breast cancer, but that it increased metastasis of pre-existing breast cancer to the lungs. [11].

Liver damage has been reported in a few individuals using black cohosh, but large numbers of women have taken the herb without reporting adverse health effects.[12] While studies of black cohosh have not proven that the herb causes liver damage, Australia has added a warning to the label of all products containing black cohosh, stating that it may cause harm to the liver of some individuals and should not be used without medical supervision.[13]

Reported direct side-effects also include dizziness, headaches, and seizures; diarrhea; nausea and vomiting; sweating; constipation; low blood pressure and slow heartbeats; and weight problems."

Yes, there is a big diff between tea and oil. I posted my bit to make sure no one accidentally used oil. Thanks muchly for the add'l info, Dusty. :)

Though interested in women's health, witchy herby stuff, etc., for years, it wasn't until my period was 2 months late, that I started researching abortificants.

Hopefully anyone reading this will take the time to do likewise (research) before drinking this concoction.

Nothing I tried worked to bring on my menses. I *think* dong quai tincture did something, but it hasn't brought on a late period since that one time.

My cycle right now is on with several burns I go to...what a pain. The last one, Preheat, just the amount of panties taking up space in my suitcase sucked. :P