Cramp Bark
The Cramp Bark Herb LATIN AND BOTANTICAL NAMES Viburnum opulus COMMON AND OTHER NAMES Snowball Tree, Guelder Rose, Red Elder, Rose Elder, Water Elder GENERAL DESCRITPION AND INFORMATION This herb is a deciduous shrub or tree that grows in low grounds, woodlands, thickets andhedges. It is a large spreading bush that can grow from 5 to 15ft. tall. The tiny white flowerscluster together to form large semi-circular “snow” balls in summer followed by black berries.The leaves are lobed and turn a rich purple color in the fall. The bark is grayish brown andhas a strong odor. It is native to Europe and the Eastern United States. It has been used by Native Americans for centuries and is recommended by herbalist today. TARGET AILMENTS Take internally for: * relaxing muscle spasms * relieving muscular and ovarian and uterine cramps * menstrual cramps * lower back and leg spasms * helping to prevent miscarriages * colic * bladder spasm * irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) * spastic colon * relief of menopause symptoms * headaches * muscle tension in intestines, airways, uterus * anxiety * hysteria * arthritis * high blood pressure * circulatory conditions such as asthma PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGE Cramp Bark is available in extract, tincture, elixir forms, and dried bark. Read labels carefully for use. Part Used: Bark and root Collection: Bark is collected in mid-spring and late spring, Constituents: Valeranic acid, salicosides, resin, tannin, a bitter called viburnin Actions: Anti-spasmodic, sedative, astringent, anti-inflammatory, emmenagogue, nervine,hypotensive, anti-abortive Combinations: This herb can be combined with Prickly Ash and Wild Yam for relief of cramps. For uterine and ovarian pains or threatened miscarriage, this herb can be combined with Black Haw and Valerian. SAFETY AND INTERACTION INFORMATION Caution: * Should be avoided during pregnancy. * The uncooked berries are poisonous even when eaten in small quantities. * Not recommended for use by anyone who has ulcers. Cramp Bark Safety & Interaction Information There are no known interactions associated with this herb; however, safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease is not known. Most herbalists will say to only use the bark of the plant for the berries are poisonous. When taken as recommended the bark poses no known risks.
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