Botanical Index No. 289

Common Buckthorn

rhamnus cathartica

Medicinal Actions

Antitumor, Depurative, Diuretic, Emetic, Laxative, Peristaltic, Colic

Primary Conditions Treated

Collyrium Anemia Appendicitis Asthma Cachexia Cancer Chlorosis Constipation Diarrhea Dropsy Exanthema Gout Hemorrhoid Herpes Itch Nausea Obesity Ophthalmia Proctosis Rheumatism Sore Stomatosis Tumor Uremia Water Retention

General Dosage

0.6–5 g fruit.; 0–20 berries; 15–30 g juice; children 0.5–1 tsp syrup; 4 g dry fruit/cup tea, 2–5 g drug/day corresponding to 20–30 mg hydroxyanthracene; 2–4 ml buckthorn berry syrup.

Safety & Contraindications

Class 2b. Commission E reports for fruit, contraindications, adverse effects, and interactions of anthranoid laxatives. Contraindicated in obstruction of the bowel or intestines, acute inflammation of the bowels as in appendicitis, colitis, and Crohn’s disease. Do not use if under 12 years of age, or pregnant. See anthranoids in introductory section. Berry extract induce tumor necrosis in mice.

!