FolkKB

Buckthorn

Frangula

Frangula alnus is a deciduous shrub found in various temperate regions and is utilized within several traditional medicine systems as a purgative. Scientific investigations have explored its metabolic profile alongside other laxative plants, though specific clinical data on its efficacy remains limited. While it was evaluated for potential anthelmintic activity, its specific impact on parasite larvae was not determined in the studied research. There are currently no major safety issues or notable drug interactions recorded in the available literature. This information is provided for educational purposes only.

At a glance
Traditionally for
purgative
Traditions
traditional
Best evidence
D
Cautions
—

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

Traditional use

What the science says

  • The study found that extracts from Bryophyllum pinnatum and Kalanchoe gunniae showed significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, though results varied. D PMID
  • The study documented 243 vascular plant taxa on São Jorge Island, Azores. D PMID
  • Frangula alnus was among 46 plant species evaluated for anthelmintic activity, but its effect on parasite larvae was not specifically determined in this study. D PMID
  • The study generated an untargeted metabolomic profile of Frangula, Cascara, Rhubarb, and Senna, revealing species-specific metabolic patterns. D PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Buckthorn?

Buckthorn (Frangula) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What is Buckthorn traditionally used for?

Traditional sources record Buckthorn for: purgative. This reflects traditional use, not a proven medical treatment.

Which traditions use Buckthorn?

Buckthorn appears in these traditions in our sources: traditional.

What does the scientific evidence say about Buckthorn?

4 sourced findings are recorded for Buckthorn; the strongest carries evidence grade D. For example: The study found that extracts from Bryophyllum pinnatum and Kalanchoe gunniae showed significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, though results varied.

How strong is the evidence for Buckthorn?

The strongest finding for Buckthorn carries evidence grade D — preliminary or traditional. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Buckthorn safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Buckthorn in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Buckthorn interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Buckthorn in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Buckthorn?

Buckthorn is also known as: Крушина, Bourdaine.

Is 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

  1. T2 Untargeted Metabolomics for Profiling of Cascara, Senna, Rhubarb, and Frangula Metabolites. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Anthelmintic Activity of Traditional Medicinal Plants Used in Europe. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 New spatial records of vascular plants in the Azores Archipelago: the PRIBES project and the Azorean Biodiversity Portal (ABP) initiatives - I. São Jorge Island (Azores). literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 Mechanisms of Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Activity of Extracts of Selected South African Celastraceae and Crassulaceae Plant Species With Known Efficacy Against Bovine Mastitis Bacterial Pathogens. literature abstract metadata
  5. T3 Frangula CC BY-SA 4.0

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