Crampbark ~ Viburnum opulus

Crampbark

Latin name: Viburnum opulus

Family: Caprifoliaceae

Part used: bark

Habitat: Europe, Britain, America

Main constituents: Hydroquinones (arbutin, methylarbutin), coumarins (scopoline), tannins (catechins)

Energetics:  Astringent, aromatic, drying

Main herbal actions: antispasmodic, nervine, cerebrospinal vasostimulant, carminative, astringent

Minor herbal actions: anti-inflammatory,

Main medicinal uses: connective tissue support (Khalsa), bronchial, gastrointestinal, genitourinary, and skeletal muscle spasms, menstrual cramps

Minor medicinal uses: atony of pelvic organs, asthma, threatened miscarriage, morning sickness, hemorrhage during labor

Preparations: decoction: 1-2 ounces per day (Khalsa), dry strength liquid extract

Contraindications: viburine in leaves and fruits may cause gastroenteritis; contains coumarin, thus CI with blood thinning agents; large doses may case hypotension; pregnancy

Toxicity: berries may be fatal

Sources: Sharol Tilgner, N.D.: Herbal Medicine from the Heart of the Earth; Wren, R.C. Potter’s New Encyclopedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations

Module 3

Good to use with Rolfing

Grows in Northeast US.  Related to Black Haw – Haw means “berry”

Used for Uterine Cramps

Dose 1/2 oz to 1 oz of herb.  Students get good results with capsules.