Buckthorn Bark
Buckthorn Bark
Snapshot
Buckthorn bark is a natural herbal laxative traditionally used to relieve constipation, cleanse the bowels, and support digestive health.
What is Buckthorn Bark?
Buckthorn bark refers to the dried bark of the Rhamnus frangula or Rhamnus cathartica shrub. Known for its purgative properties, it has been used since ancient times to stimulate bowel movements and gently cleanse the digestive tract.
Where It Comes From
Buckthorn is a deciduous shrub native to Europe, Northwest Africa, and parts of Western Asia. The bark must be aged for at least a year or heat-treated before it’s safe for internal use, as fresh bark contains anthraquinones in a highly irritating form.
Key Nutrients & Compounds
Buckthorn bark contains anthraquinone glycosides, such as frangulin and emodin, which stimulate peristalsis in the colon and increase water secretion into the bowel. It also provides small amounts of tannins and flavonoids with mild anti-inflammatory properties.
Health Benefits
The primary use of buckthorn bark is to relieve occasional constipation by increasing intestinal motility. It helps soften stools and encourage regular elimination, making it useful for bowel cleansing or short-term detox regimens. It may also ease bloating and support colon health when used correctly and sparingly.
Recommended Dosage
Typical doses range from 20 mg to 30 mg of standardized buckthorn extract per day, or 1–2 grams of dried bark steeped in hot water as a tea. It should not be used for more than 7 to 10 consecutive days.
How to Use It
Buckthorn bark is commonly consumed as a tea, capsule, or liquid extract. It is often combined with other digestive herbs like senna, cascara sagrada, or licorice root in laxative blends.
Who Should Use It?
Best suited for adults experiencing occasional constipation or preparing for a bowel detox. It may also be useful for individuals who prefer herbal alternatives to over-the-counter laxatives.
Possible Interactions or Cautions
Prolonged or excessive use can lead to dependence, electrolyte imbalance, or cramping. It should not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with intestinal obstruction, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Final Thoughts
Buckthorn bark is a powerful, natural laxative with a long history in herbal medicine. When used responsibly and occasionally, it can support healthy elimination and digestive balance.
Scientific Studies
Wegener, T., & Fintelmann, V. (1999). Antifungal effects of Frangula bark extract: an in vitro study. Phytomedicine, 6(2), 105–109. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0944-7113(99)80003-3
Blumenthal, M. (Ed.). (2000). The Complete German Commission E Monographs: Therapeutic Guide to Herbal Medicines. American Botanical Council.
Van Wyk, B.-E., & Wink, M. (2017). Medicinal Plants of the World. CABI Publishing.