Alder Buckthorn
Frangula alnus
Frangula alnus, also known as black alder, is a traditional plant primarily found in Europe. Its use in herbal medicine has not been extensively documented or widely practiced. Scientific studies have focused on its chemical composition rather than medicinal applications. A study validated an Ultra-High Performance Supercritical Fluid Chromatography method for determining anthraquinone derivatives in Frangula alnus, showing promising results but no clear evidence of nematocidal properties. The plant has been observed as a forage option for Highland cattle and showed some potential in reducing potato late blight severity when used alongside reduced copper applications; however, its efficacy varied by year and variety. No significant safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been noted for Frangula alnus.
- Best evidence
- D
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- Frangula alnus did not demonstrate nematocidal properties in this study evaluating traditional medicinal plants for anthelmintic activity.
- Frangula alnus bark treatments, combined with reduced copper applications, showed variable effectiveness in controlling potato late blight over four years of field experiments.
- Highland cattle consumed Frangula alnus among other shrubs, suggesting its potential as forage.
- The study developed and validated an Ultra-High Performance Supercritical Fluid Chromatography method for the determination of seven anthraquinone derivatives in Frangula alnus, showing good selectivity and accuracy.
Frequently asked questions
What is Alder Buckthorn?
Alder Buckthorn (Frangula alnus) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Alder Buckthorn?
4 sourced findings are recorded for Alder Buckthorn; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: Frangula alnus did not demonstrate nematocidal properties in this study evaluating traditional medicinal plants for anthelmintic activity.
How strong is the evidence for Alder Buckthorn?
The strongest finding for Alder Buckthorn carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Alder Buckthorn safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Alder Buckthorn in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Alder Buckthorn interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Alder Buckthorn in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Alder Buckthorn?
Alder Buckthorn is also known as: Крушина ломкая, Bourdaine.
Is Alder Buckthorn a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Foraging behavior of Highland cattle in silvopastoral systems in the Alps. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Determination of anthraquinones in Frangula alnus by Supercritical Fluid Chromatography. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Potato Late Blight Control with a Botanical Product and Reduced Copper Applications. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Anthelmintic Activity of Traditional Medicinal Plants Used in Europe. literature abstract metadata