Scientific Name: Rhamnus fragula – Rhamnaceae Family
AKA: European buckthorn, Arrowwood, black alder tree, Persian berries, Alder buckthorn, black dogwood, black alder dogwood, European black alder, glossy buckthorn.
Parts Used: Bark - fruit
Active Compounds: Rhamnin and Rhamnocathartin
Background: Buckthorn was used by the ancient Greeks for protection from demons, poisons and witches. Also used for relief of headaches and constipation.
Applications: Purgative/Diuretic/Ointment
Purgative: Widely used as a cure for constipation and is also used for appendicitis.
Diuretic: When taken hot, Buckthorn will cause intense perspiration. The diuretic effect also helps in cases of gout, rheumatism and dropsy.
Ointment: Buckthorn can be applied externally for areas of the body that itch. Buckthorn can also be used to remove warts.
Description: Buckthorn is a deciduous tree that grows up to 20 feet tall. The bark is green when the tree is young, but turns to gray as it ages. Flowers are green and white and bloom between May and July. Berries of Buckthorn are black when mature.
Buckthorn Dosage:
Purgative/Diuretic: Boil 1 part of berry juice with 6 parts of water and a small amount of sugar or honey to make palatable.
Ointment: Apply small amount of Buckthorn ointment externally to warts or irritated (itching) body parts.
Safety: Vomiting may occur. If the Buckthorn bark is to be used, it should be dried from 1 to 2 years before use.
For educational purposes only This Buckthorn information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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