Black Cohosh Root is primarily used for women’s health supplements. Traditionally black cohosh was used to treat colds, constipation, coughs, fatigue, and rheumatism. It was also taken to increase breast milk production. Currently black cohosh supplements are taken for menstrual cramps, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, diarrhea, depression, headache constipation, fatigue, muscle pain, arthritis, sore throat and indigestion. It is also made into an ointment to apply on snake bites and as a insect repellent. Recent studies show that black cohosh may protect against osteoporosis. The active compound responsible for its medicinal properties is believed to be 26-deoxyactein.