Buckthorn Herbal Remedies
Buckthorn is a popular European herb used widely as a mild laxative. It also contains alterative properties, has been recommended for rheumatism (to clear heat), and was one of the ingredients of the famous Hoxsey cure for cancer. Other preparations: As a light decoction, 2-4 grams/dose, in the evening. Buckthorn has a taste of BITTER, SWEET and a temperature of COLD.
Buckthorn Proper Dose
| Type | Dossage |
| Buckthorn Decoction | 1/2 to 1 cup daily |
| Buckthorn Tincture | 1-3 droppersful daily |
Buckthorn Reference Information
| Latin Name | Rhamnus catharticus |
| Other Names | Purging buckthorn |
| Part Used | Bark |
| Herb Forms | Tinctures, capsules, bulk herb, powder. |
| Affects | Digestive system, Liver |
| Cautions | Avoid during pregnancy and nursing. Contraindicated in abdominal pain, intestinal obstruction and inflammation, and for children under the age of twelve. |
| Botanical Info | A thorny deciduous shrub or small tree with finely toothed leaves and black berries. The bark is yellow on the inner surface and tastes extremely bitter and sweet. |
Supporting Research
Blumenthal, Mark et al. 1998. The Complete Commission E Monographs. Austin: American Botanical Council.
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Felter, H.W. and J.U. Lloyd. 1983. (1898). King's Dispensatory. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications.
Weiss, R. 1988. Herbal Medicine. Beaconsfield, England: Beaconsfield Publishers.
Wren, R.C. 1988. Potter's New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs. Essex: C.W. Daniel Co. Ltd.