AKA- squaw-root, papoose-root
Uses- Native Americans used various preparations of the root of Blue Cohosh medicinally to treat rheumatism, toothaches, profuse menstruation, indigestion and stomach cramps, fits and hysterics, genito-urinary dysfunction, gallstones, and fever, as an aid in childbirth, and as a general tonic.
http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=CATH2
Seeing this plant all over the mountains, up until a couple of years ago, I wasn’t aware of its name and uses. It’s amazing the amount of wild plants found in West Virginia that have uses stretching back to early America and before. With a knowledgeable hike through the mountains of West Virginia one could point out plants that are either very tasty or have medicinal uses, literally everywhere you look. West Virginia Heritage personified…
