Buckthorn Bark has been used medicinally since at least the 1600s when it was listed in a primary medical reference called the London Pharmacopeia. Although most herbs have a wide variety of traditional uses, Buckthorn throughout its history has been consistently used for one ailment, constipation.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the bark and leaves provide a bright yellow-red dye that has been used for centuries to color textiles. The genus name Frangula comes from the Latin “frangere” (to break) and refers to the brittle nature of the wood of the shrub or tree. The epithet Alnus (alder) clearly draws a similarity of the leaves with those of the alder. The tannins in Buckthorn the Bark are believed to have herbal astringent properties and have been used to treat hemorrhoids.
Properties: The taste and energetics of Buckthorn Bark are bitter, acrid, astringent and cooling. Buckthorn has an affinity towards the intestine, colon and digestive system.
How to use: 20 to 30mg per day is sufficient for the laxative effect. Make a tea infusion by adding 1 teaspoon of the Buckthorn Bark and let it steep for 10-15 minutes. The tea should be taken in the evening before bedtime.
Precautions: If used for a long period of time, like any laxative, Buckthorn Bark can reduce your body’s absorption of other medications. Overuse can lead to a potassium deficiency that can affect heartbeat regulation drugs, particularly if you are also taking diuretics of Corticosteroids. Buckthorn Bark can cause intestinal cramping, particularly in large doses. Don’t take Buckthorn bark if you have an intestinal obstruction or acute intestinal inflammations, such as Crohn’s disease, appendicitis or colitis.
This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. All aspects, properties, contraindications of every product are not listed; please do your own research. Always seek the counsel of a licensed healthcare professional if you are planning to use herbs or any other product from Manipura Apothecary.
