Herbs & Supplements

Waythorn Scientific Name: Rhamnus cathartica Other Names: Buckthorn Berry, Common Buckthorn, Hartshorn, Highwaythorn, Purging Buckthorn, Ramsthorn Who is this for? Uses Historically, plants containing chemicals in the class known as anthraquinones have been used as medicine--usually as laxatives, which help to make bowel movements easier and lessen constipation. Rhamnus cathartica berries contain an anthraquinone called glucofrangulin A. When taken by mouth, Rhamnus cathartica stimulates intestinal movement to promote the emptying of intestinal contents. Because Rhamnus cathartica's effects can be sudden and quite strong, it is also known as a cathartic or purgative. Currently, other laxative products are more effective and less likely to cause side effects. When should I be careful taking it? >>

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.