Latin Name: Rhamnus frangula
Alternate Names: Alder Buckthorn
Family: RHAMNACEAE
Parts Used: Bark, berries.
Properties: Alterative, Antifungal, Bitter Tonic, Cathartic, Depurative, Diuretic, Galactagogue, Laxative, Purgative.
Internal Uses: Arthritis, Cancer, Constipation, Gallstones, Gout, Hemorrhoids, Herpes, Jaundice, Lead Poisoning, Liver Stagnation, Obesity, Parasites, Pulmonary Edema
Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules. Berries are made into a syrup.
Buckthorn’s bitter principles help to stimulate digestion. The anthraquinones have a laxative effect. It is being studied as an antifungal agent and has shown activity against Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Trichophytum.
Topical Uses: Warts
Topical Applications: Poultice on warts.
Energetics: Bitter, Cold.
Chemical Constituents: Anthraquinones (emodin, aloe-emodin, chrysophanol), flavonoid glycoside, vitamin C.
Contraindications: Avoid during pregnancy. Use only dried, not fresh, bark. It is a strong purgative so proceed with caution. Avoid in cases of colitis, hemorrhoids, and ulcers. Berries are somewhat toxic and may cause vomiting.
Comments: The wood of this plant is hard and durable. It has been used to make shoes, nails and veneer. Its charcoal is favored by gunpowder makers.
The common name Buckthorn also includes the species Rhamus cathartica (Common Buckthorn) which is used interchangeably with Rhamus frangula.