Buckthorn Bark Tea

Buckthorn Bark, also known as Alder Buckthorn, Alder Dogwood, Black Dogwood, and Glossy Buckthorn, has been used since the days of ancient Greece. At that time it was thought to protect against poisons, headaches, witchcraft and demons.

These shrubs are found in temperate regions in the Northern and Southern hemisphere. The small trees can grow up to a height of 10 meters with leaves that can be up to 15 centimeters long. The leaves are usually shiny and dark green. The berries of this plant are dark blue in color. The characteristic name of this herb comes from a telltale woody spine that is found in the plant. The plant flowers in May and June.

In the mid 1600’s it became recognized in Europe as a treatment for constipation, and at the time was listed in the London Pharmacopoeia a primary source for medical reference. It became recognized officially as a drug in the United States in the early 1800’s when it was listed in the National Formulary, again as a treatment for constipation.

In addition to its medicinal uses, the bark and leaves provide a bright yellow-red dye that has been used for centuries to color textiles.