Black Snake Root (black snakeroot, black cohosh, squaw root, black bugbane) was used by the Indians, and received the name Squaw Root. In small doses, it improves digestion and appetite, while larger doses augment the secretions of the intestines, kidneys, skin, and mucous membranes. Edgar Cayce recommended black snake root as a digestive aid working especially with the stomach, liver and lacteal ducts. Black snake root was mentioned in approximately 51 of Edgar Cayce's readings between 1922-1943 with a peak utilization in 1922.