Buckthorn

Buckthorn contains chemicals that are dramatic-for most people, too dramatic.  Buckthorn should be considered a last resort treatment for constipation.  First, eat a diet higher in fiber, drink more fluids, and exercise more.  If that doesn't provide relief, try a bulk-forming laxative such as psyllium, for example.  If that doesn't work, try a gentler anthraquinone, cascara sagrada. And if that doesn't work try buckthorn in consultation with your physician.

In Germany, physicians prescribe an infusion containing 1/2 teaspoon each of dried bark, fennel seed, and chamomile flowers steeped in one cup of boiling water for ten minutes.

If you prefer a decoction, boil 1 teaspoon of dried buckthorn in 3 cups of water and steep for 30 minutes. Drink cool, one tablespoon at a time before bed.

Don't use buckthorn for more than two weeks at a time.  If you use it too long, it causes lazy bowel syndrome - an inability to move a stool without chemical stimulation.

If you use buckthorn make sure it has been dried thoroughly. Otherwise, it causes vomiting, severe abdominal pain and violent diarrhea. Fresh buckthorn may also be artificially dried by baking at 250 degrees Fahrenheit for several hours.