Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) vs Chinese Peony / White Peony (Paeonia lactiflora)

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa)

Chinese Peony / White Peony (Paeonia lactiflora)

About

Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) is a tall herbaceous perennial, growing up to about 8 ft (2.5 m) with creamy-white flower spikes. Its thick, knobby root has a bitter, acrid taste and a distinctive odor. Native Americans used the root for a variety of conditions, including menstrual cramps, kidney ailments and sore throat; NCCIH says research has focused on menopause symptoms, and there aren't enough reliable data on other uses.

White peony is an upright perennial growing to 6.5 feet with large white flowers and divided, dark green leaves. Its history of use in China stretches back at least 1,500 years, and it is one of the herbs in 'Four Things Soup.' The plant is cultivated throughout northeastern China and Inner Mongolia, propagated from seed in spring or from root cuttings in winter. The root of 4- or 5-year-old plants is harvested in spring or autumn.

Safety & precautions

Liver: LiverTox describes many reported cases of acute liver injury with products sold as black cohosh, some severe enough to need a liver transplant or to cause death. NCCIH calls these problems rare and says it is uncertain whether black cohosh itself or contaminants were responsible. Stop and contact a clinician if you notice dark urine, fatigue, abdominal pain or yellowing skin or eyes. Pregnancy: MSK advises avoiding black cohosh during pregnancy because it may act as an abortifacient, and NCCIH says it may not be safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Side Effects in Large Doses: May cause headaches, dizziness, central nervous system irritation, nausea, and vomiting. Hormone-Sensitive Conditions: Without professional guidance, avoid it with any hormone-sensitive condition or after breast cancer.

Do not take during pregnancy. Use under professional guidance for hormonal conditions.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.