Botanical Name: Rhamnus frangula

Common Name:

English: Buckthorn
Also, known as: Highwaythorn, Hartsthorn, Waythorn, Ramsthorn, columnar buckthorn, European alder, Fen buckthorn, Tall hedge buckthorn, alder buckthorn

Origin: Ukraine

Harvested: Wild

Parts Used: Bark

General Information:

Rhamnus frangula is a perennial shrub which grow in neutral to acid soils and required full sun to shade. The leaves are alternately along branches heart-shaped, pointed, Ovate leaves are arranged alternately, thin, elliptic to oblong, and smooth. Also, the Leaves are shiny as if they had been varnished, green from above and pale green from below. Late in autumn they turn dark purple or slightly yellow, making a very showy appearance. In winter, the stems die down, though the root is perennial. Small, green-yellow flowers are borne in dense clusters. Flowers are hermaphrodites and are insect-pollinated.

Very small size of black fruit which is shiny when ripe. Normally bark is collected from and removed from fallen branches rather than removing from the trunk, which damages the tree cut bark into small pieces, dry and store it for a year before using it medicinally.

Consuming fresh bark can cause severe physical effects and is discouraged because of its emetic properties.

How to use:

Decoctions are suitable for roots, barks, large seeds & berries, and other dense material. The simple way to make decoction is, in a saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs to 1 cup of water. Bring the water to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30-60 minutes. Strain and squeeze out as much as liquid as possible and enjoy!

Tips:

You can sweeten your herbal decoctions with bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder and or licorice root powder.

Precautions:

You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

All information on this website is for educational purpose ONLY

This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Buckthorn Bark Cut