Herbs & Supplements

Alnus glutinosa Scientific Name: Black Alder Other Names: Betula Alnus, Common Alder, English Alder, European Alder, Owler, Tag Alder When should I be careful taking it? Precautions Black alder bark contains up to 20% of chemicals known as tannins. Although no side effects have been reported from using black alder as a gargle or foot soak, oral preparations of other herbal products that are high in tannin content have been associated with kidney or liver damage. Tannins possibly may be absorbed through the skin as well as through the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. Therefore, individuals who have kidney or liver conditions should not use black alder in any form. Because so little is known about black alder and its possible effects on a developing fetus, an infant, or a small child; its use is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women or children under the age of 18. << Back What side effects should I watch for? >>

Note: The above information is not intended to replace the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not meant to indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or effective for you.

In general, herbal products are not subject to review or approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They are not required to be standardized, meaning that the amounts of active ingredients or contaminants they contain may vary between brands or between different batches of the same brand. Not all of the risks, side effects, or interactions associated with the use of herbal products are known because few reliable studies of their use in humans have been done.

This information is provided for your education only. Please share this information with your healthcare provider and be sure that you talk to your doctor and pharmacist about all the prescription and non-prescription medicines you take before you begin to use any herbal product.