Buckthorn is a tall, deciduous shrub native to Europe, western Asia, and the Middle East. Historically used to dye textiles yellow, Frangula alnus also has a history of use for its beneficial properties. Our buckthorn bark has been dried for a year and is traditionally prepared as an extract or bitter tea.

The buckthorn is a shrub native to Europe, Western Asia, and the Middle East. Buckthorn is never used fresh. It is collected in the summer, and then must be aged for at least a year to break down its anthrone chemicals. If the buckthorn is not aged, it is not laxative, it is purgative, causing intense intestinal spasms and vomiting. The herb can be artificially aged by heating or aeration, but some useful constituents may be lost. Mountain Rose Herbs offers dried bark that has been aged for 1 year, as recommended.

A member of the Rhamnaceae family, buckthorn bark is best taken as a tablet and can be used as a tea but is hard to drink given its bitter taste. May also be prepared as an extract. Historically, it has also been used as a dye for textiles.

Precautions
Do not use this product if you have abdominal pain or diarrhea. Consult a health care provider prior to use if you are pregnant or nursing. Discontinue use in the event of diarrhea or watery stools. Do not exceed recommended dose. Not for long-term use. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.