Botanical Overview
Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica) belongs to the Rhamnaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. The buckthorn family (Rhamnaceae) includes shrubs and trees with simple, alternate leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers with four or five petals. The fruits are typically drupes or capsules. Many species contain anthraquinone glycosides with strong purgative activity.
Family Context
The Rhamnaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Ceanothus americanus — 21 documented uses
- Buckthorn — 8 documented uses
- Cascara Sagrada — 6 documented uses
- Mabi — 5 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Buckthorn has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Austria, Canada, Switzerland, Germany, France, and others.
Traditional Uses
Buckthorn has been traditionally used for digestive health and urinary tract health.
Digestive health.
- Purgative
- Laxative
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Urinary tract health.
- Diuretic
Urinary tract applications typically involve drinking the herb as a mild tea, which increases urine production and helps flush the urinary system. It may be combined with other demulcent herbs to soothe irritated tissues.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 22 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage