Black Dogwood
Scientific Name: Rhamnus frangula
Other Names: Alder Buckthorn, Alder Dogwood, Arrow Wood, Dog Wood, European Buckthorn, Frangula Bark, Glossy Buckthorn
What interactions should I watch for?
Prescription Drugs
Because both corticosteroid drugs and Rhamnus frangula may promote the loss of potassium from the body, they should not be taken at the same time. Corticosteroids are used for a wide range of inflammatory conditions including arthritis, asthma, cancer, eye conditions, and skin infections.
Commonly prescribed corticosteroids include:
- beclomethasone
- dexamethasone (Decadron)
- hydrocortisone
- methylprednisolone (Medrol)
- prednisolone
- prednisone
- triamcinolone
Diuretic drugs ("water pills"), such as furosemide and hydrochlorothiazide, can also reduce potassium levels in the body. If they are taken at the same time as Rhamnus frangula, potassium may become too low--possibly leading to muscle weakness and potentially dangerous changes in heart rhythm.
Rhamnus frangula can increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, headache, heart rhythm changes, nausea, slow pulse, vision changes, and vomiting from the heart drug, digoxin. Rhamnus frangula should not be taken with digoxin.
Rhamnus frangula shortens the time that intestinal contents stay in the body. In theory, the effects of other drugs that are absorbed in the intestines may be reduced.
Non-prescription Drugs
Taking Rhamnus frangula at the same time as a commercial laxative may increase the laxative effects as well as the risk of potassium loss from the body. In general, it is not recommended to use both Rhamnus frangula and a laxative at the same time.
Herbal Products
Both Rhamnus frangula and extremely large amounts of true licorice (not licorice flavoring) can promote the loss of potassium from the body, potentially causing muscle weakness and changes in heart rhythm. The licorice ordinarily sold as candy in the United States does not contain true licorice. In any case, eating enough true licorice to present a problem is unlikely, if Rhamnus frangula is taken as directed.
Rhamnus frangula possibly could increase the laxative effects of other herbal laxatives including:
- Aloe
- Rhamnus cathartica
- Rhamnus purshiana
- Senna
- Yellow Dock
Some interactions between herbal products and medications can be more severe than others. The best way for you to avoid harmful interactions is to tell your doctor and/or pharmacist what medications you are currently taking, including any over-the-counter products, vitamins, and herbals. For specific information on how Rhamnus frangula interacts with drugs, other herbals, and foods and the severity of those interactions, please use our Drug Interactions Checker to check for possible interactions.
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What interactions should I watch for?
