Alder, Black (Alder Buckthorn)

BASIC INFORMATION

Biological name (genus and species):
Rhamnus frangula, Frangula
Parts used for medicinal purposes:
Various parts of the entire plant, frequently differing by
country and/or culture
Chemicals this herb contains:
Anthraquinone glycosides
Emodin
Rhamnose

KNOWN EFFECTS

Irritates gastrointestinal tract.

Causes vomiting.

Miscellaneous information:

Is used in veterinary medicine for its cathartic properties.

Emetic action (causing vomiting) is less when plant is dried for 1 year or more.

UNPROVED SPECULATED BENEFITS

Temporarily relieves constipation.

WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

Don't take if you:

Are pregnant, think you may be pregnant or plan pregnancy in the near future.

Have any chronic disease of gastrointestinal tract, such as stomach or duodenal ulcers, esophageal reflux (reflux esophagitis), ulcerative colitis, spastic colitis, diverticulosis, diverticulitis.

Consult your doctor if you:

Take this herb for any medical problem that doesn't improve in 2 weeks. There may be safer, more-effective treatments.

Take any medicinal drugs or herbs including aspirin, laxatives, cold and cough remedies, antacids, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, supplements, other prescription or non-prescription drugs.

Pregnancy:

Problems in pregnant women taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Breast-feeding:

Problems in breast-fed infants of lactating mothers taking small or usual amounts have not been proved. But the chance of problems does exist. Don't use unless prescribed by your doctor.

Infants and children:

Treating infants and children under 2 with any herbal preparation is hazardous.

Others:

None expected if you are beyond childhood and under 45, basically healthy and take for only a short time.

Storage:

Keep cool and dry, but don't freeze. Store safely away from children.

Safe dosage:

At present no "safe" dosage has been established.

TOXICITY

Rated slightly dangerous, particularly in children, persons
over 55 and those who take larger than appropriate quantities for
extended periods of time.

For symptoms of toxicity: See Adverse Reactions, Side Effects or Overdose Symptoms section below.

ADVERSE REACTIONS, SIDE EFFECTS OR OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS

Signs and symptoms:	What to do:
Abdominal cramps, severe	Discontinue. Call doctor
	immediately.
Abdominal pain	Discontinue. Call doctor when
	convenient.
Nausea	Discontinue. Call doctor
	immediately.
Vomiting	Discontinue. Call doctor
	immediately.