Herbs & Supplements

Alder Buckthorn Scientific Name: Rhamnus frangula Other Names: Alder Dogwood, Arrow Wood, Black Dogwood, Dog Wood, European Buckthorn, Frangula Bark, Glossy Buckthorn Who is this for? Uses Caution: Fresh Rhamnus frangula bark contains chemicals, including emodin, that cause severe vomiting. For use in medicine, the bark must be aged for at least one year. More common in Europe than in North America, Rhamnus frangula is used as a laxative. It contains chemicals known as anthraquinones that stimulate intestinal movement and also attract more water to the intestines. Both actions promote the emptying of intestinal contents. Currently, however, 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.