Alder buckthorn
Frangula alnus Mill
Alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus) is a shrub with smooth grey bark, growing in damp woods and beside water. The bark is used, but only after a year of ageing or heat treatment; fresh, it causes sickness. Traditionally used for constipation, for short periods.
What alder buckthorn is
the bark of alder buckthorn (Frangulae cortex)
Alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus) is a shrub or low tree with smooth grey bark dotted with pale lenticels, and with black fruit that ripens in succession on the same bush, so that green, red and black berries hang together. It grows in damp woods, on bogs and beside water.
The bark is used, peeled in spring from younger branches. Fresh bark is not used: before use it must lie for at least a year or be heat treated, or it causes severe nausea and vomiting. This is a rule to be followed to the letter.
Alder buckthorn must not be confused with other shrubs of similar bark. In the collection it appears as an ingredient of laxative preparations; its use is limited in time and it is not for drinking every day.
Use and evidence
The EMA recognises short-term use for occasional constipation. It is not suitable for cleansing the body, for weight loss or for chronic daily use. EMA.
Safety and precautions
It can cause cramps and diarrhoea and upset the electrolytes. It is not used where there is an obstruction, acute abdominal pain, inflammatory bowel disease, or in children; prolonged use calls for a doctor.
These notes are general and do not replace advice from a doctor or a pharmacist, above all in pregnancy, while breastfeeding, in children and alongside medicines.
Where you will find it in the range
0 products from Ašič's pharmacy contain alder buckthorn. The composition is listed with every product.
What people ask about Alder buckthorn
Which products is alder buckthorn in?
Alder buckthorn is an ingredient of these products: .
How do I find out which blend is the right one for me?
Ring the pharmacist on +386 1 78 77 065 (Mon, Wed, Fri 8.00–14.00). Tell him what is troubling you and he will tell you what is traditionally used for it.
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