Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides)

Blue Cohosh (Caulophyllum thalictroides) is not consumed as a food source and thus lacks conventional macronutrient or micronutrient significance. Its profile is dominated by pharmacologically active bioactive compounds rather than nutritional constituents. Primary alkaloids include caulosaponin (a quinolizidine alkaloid) and caulophylline (N-methylcytisine), the latter present at approximately 0.01–0.05% dry weight of root material, which acts as a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor agonist and is largely responsible for cardiovascular and uterotonic toxicity. Baptifoline and anagyrine (additional quinolizidine alkaloids) are present at trace concentrations (<0.01% dry weight) and contribute to teratogenic risk documented in preclinical models. Steroidal saponins, particularly caulosaponin and related glycosides, occur at approximately 0.5–2.0% dry weight of rhizome and root, and are understood to drive uterine smooth muscle stimulation via oxytocin-like receptor interactions. Taspine, a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, is present in small quantities and has demonstrated vasoactive properties in vitro. Resins constitute roughly 2–5% of dry root weight. Phytosterols including beta-sitosterol are present at low concentrations. Mineral content includes trace amounts of calcium, magnesium, and potassium, but at concentrations nutritionally insignificant given the non-dietary context of use. No meaningful fiber, protein, or lipid fractions are documented for therapeutic preparations. Bioavailability data for human pharmacokinetics is absent from peer-reviewed literature; animal models suggest rapid gastrointestinal absorption of alkaloid fractions with hepatic first-pass metabolism. All concentrations referenced derive from phytochemical analyses of dried rhizome and root preparations.