Glossy Buckthorn - Rhamnus frangula | Medicinal use, description and other useful informations about Glossy Buckthorn

Common name: Glossy Buckthorn
Latin name: Rhamnus frangula
Other names: Alder Buckthorn, Alder Dogwood, Arrowwood , Black Alder Tree, Black Dogwood, European Black Alder
Family: Rhamnaceae
Habitat: The plant is native to Europe, Africa and western Asia.
Description: Glossy Buckthorn is a deciduous shrub with dark, black-brown bark marked with white ridges. Leaves are glossy- green and ovate, alternately arranged. Flowers are greenish-white, borne in small clusters, appearing from May until July.
Parts used: Bark
Useful components: Anthraquinones, anthrones, anthranols, flavonoids and tannins.
Medicinal use: Glossy Buckthorn is known as a laxative and cathartic. Tea made from the bark can be used as a laxative (it doesn’t irritate the intestines), in treatments of hemorrhoids and anal fissures. Also it promotes intestine peristalsis and increases water movement.
Safety: Glossy Buckthorn should not be consumed if you have diarrhea or abdominal pain, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. Some herbs could react with certain medication. Therefore, it is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption of any herb.