Herbs & Supplements

Alder Buckthorn Scientific Name: Rhamnus frangula Other Names: Alder Dogwood, Arrow Wood, Black Dogwood, Dog Wood, European Buckthorn, Frangula Bark, Glossy Buckthorn What side effects should I watch for? Major Side Effects Rhamnus frangula's fresh bark or bark that has not been aged properly contains chemicals that cause severe vomiting. If Rhamnus frangula is used in high doses or for extended periods, it can lead to reduced potassium levels in the body. Low potassium levels can result in muscle weakness and potentially dangerous changes in heart rhythm. Occasionally, Rhamnus frangula has been associated with intense abdominal cramping. Less Severe Side Effects Taking Rhamnus frangula can darken the color of the stools and urine. Regularly taking anthraquinone laxatives for many years may cause the inside of the intestines to darken from pink to brown in color. This condition, known as psuedomelanosis coli, is thought to result from discoloration by the pigments in the laxative products. Some researchers suggest that pseudomelanosis coli may lead to intestinal diseases, but no definite link has been established. << Back What interactions 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.