Buckthorn Bark (Rhamnus frangula)

Officially, Buckthorn Bark has been used medicinally since the 1600's, when it was listed in a primary medical reference, 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 and its by-products (hemorrhoids and anal irritation). The tannins in Buckthorn the bark are believed to have herbal astringent properties and have been used to treat hemorrhoids. Because this herb has such powerful laxative actions, people with gastrointestinal problems, such as ulcers, colitis, should not use Buckthorn Bark. It also stimulates the production of bile secretions, which promote healthy gallbladder and liver functions, helping to treat problems like cirrhosis, jaundice, hepatitis and gallstones. The herb is also used to ease abdominal bloating and is often marketed as a weight-loss supplement. Buckthorn Bark can be beneficial as a menstruation promoter and has a history of treating cancer. The herb is an ingredient in the popular herbal combination called, Hoxsey Cancer Formula. Besides relieving constipation, Buckthorn Bark extracts may also help to treat headaches, followed by rheumatism, allergies, diabetes, cholesterol balance, gingivitis, eye disease, immune function, kidney problems, high blood pressure and red blood cell production after chemotherapy. It is also said to remove warts and expel intestinal worms.

Also referred to as black alder, Buckthorn Bark extract is very beneficial when used for gastrointestinal irritations, spasms, diarrhea colic and vomiting. Buckthorn has been sold as an herbal remedy, primarily for bowel disorders. It contains a chemical that acts on the nerves of the intestines that sometimes contract, preventing bowel movement. This herbal medicine is considered to be a mild and effective, laxative that efficiently and thoroughly evacuates the intestines and bowel, relieving both chronic and atonic constipation. Buckthorn Bark helps flush out the digestive system, effectively ridding the body of toxins and other waste that can cause weight gain and bloating that can occur. Other benefits of Buckthorn Bark tincture, is its ability to help hemorrhoids or anal fissures heal. There are also some times in which Buckthorn Bark extract is applied to cleanse the colon in preparation for gastrointestinal diagnostic procedures. Because of its stool softening effects which make it more comfortable for people with these ailments, as well as for those who are recovering from recto-anal surgery. 

Buckthorn contains an ingredient called anthraquinone of which the majority of the anthranoid content present, are glycosides. This may have cancer-fighting properties. Buckthorn is also used as a tonic and a "blood purifier" and a diuretic. In cases of obesity, the use of Buckthorn bark tincture has produced some good results. Buckthorn is also recommended for liver insufficiency in association with herbs like Dandelion root and Chicory root tinctures. It is used in the treatment of liver disorders and especially for the constipation that is caused by the insufficiency.

When used externally in a compress, Buckthorn Bark extract helps in the treatment of skin diseases associated with constipation, such as allergic eczema, psoriasis, acne and infections of the skin.

Contraindications: If used for too long a 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 are pregnant or breast-feeding. Don't take Buckthorn bark if you have an intestinal obstruction or acute intestinal inflammations, such as Crohn's disease, appendicitis or colitis. This herbal tincture is not recommended for use for children.