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Buckthorn
 


Buckthorn (Frangula alnus or Rhamnus frangula) is a small, shrub-like tree in the alder family. The bark of these trees is used medicinally.

Source

It is usually available as a powder of the dried bark.

Function; Reasons For Use
The active components are anthraquinone glycosides including frangulin and emodin compounds. These compounds act very similar to their related compounds in Cascara Sagrada, as laxatives.

Buckthorn bark has very mild laxative activity compared to other similar natural laxatives. As part of the famed "Hoxsey formula", buckthorn bark is also used in blood and system detoxification protocols. German Commission E has approved the use of the bark for constipation.





GLOSSARY

Anthraquinone
A yellow crystalline powder that is insoluble in water and used chiefly in the manufacture of dyes.

Commission E
The body of scientists and panel of experts that provides advice on herbal treatments and evaluates the safety, effectiveness and dosage of medicinal herbs; Germany's equivalent of the FDA.

Constipation (Constipated)
Difficult, incomplete, or infrequent evacuation of dry, hardened feces from the bowels.

Laxative (Laxatives)
A substance (food, herb, chemical) that stimulates evacuation of the bowels. Examples include cascara sagrada, senna, castor oil, aloe vera, bisacodyl, phenolphthalein and many others.




Last updated: Jun 22, 2008
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