Scientific Name: Viburnum prunifolium Origin: United States
AKA: Cramp Bark, Guelder Rose, Stagbush, American Sloe, Snowball Tree, King's Crown, High Cranberry, Red Elder, Rose Elder, Water Elder, May Rose, Whitsun Rose, Dog Rowan Tree, Silver Bells, Whitsun Bosses, Gaitre Berries
Parts Used: Dried bark from the root, stem or trunk
Active Compounds: Coumarins, including Scopoletin; Salicin; l-Methyl-2; 3-Dibutyl Hemimellitate; Viburnin; plant acids; volatile oil; tannin.
Background: Black Haw was historically used by North American slaves to prevent miscarriage. In Canada, the berries are sometimes used as a substitute for cranberries in jellies. The Catawba used it for dysentery.
Applications: Anti-spasmodic, Relaxant, Sedative
Anti-spasmodic – may be used in the treatment of uterine spasms as well as for asthma. Its qualities also help the digestive system and urinary tract.
Relaxant – Useful in lowering hypertensive blood pressure
Description: Black Haw is found in the Eastern and Central United States. It is a deciduous shrub, growing up to 16+ feet. It features 3 inch, dull-colored leaves with finely serrated edges and large white flowers which reach 3 – 5 inches in width. Its bright red berries appear in late summer.
Dosage:
Decoction – place 2 tsp. of dried bark in a cup of water, bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes. Drink the resulting tea three times per day.
Tincture – Take 5 – 10 ml of Black Haw tincture three times per day.
Safety: Do not eat the uncooked fruit. Do not take Black Haw if you are allergic to aspirin.
For educational purposes only This Black Haw 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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