Viburnum opulus
Viburnum opulus Common name: Crampbark (V. opulus)
Family: Caprifolicaceae
Part Used: Dried cortex (bark)
Constituents: Viburnin (glycoside), valerianic acid, coumarins (scopoletin, scopaline), salicosides, resin and 3% tannin, hydroquinone glycosides (arbutin), bitter (viburnin)
Actions: Antispamodic, sedative, nervous system relaxant, astringent, anti-asthmatic, hypotensive, peripheral vasodilator, muscle relaxant, bitter, uterine tonic, emmenagogue, diuretic
Medicinal use: Viburnum is a skeletal and smooth muscle relaxant (uterus, bronchial mucous membrane and blood vessels). It can be used both internally topically to relieve cramps (especially menstrual and in uterine & ovarian pain), asthma, and hypertension. Muscle spasms, pain and cramping in any area can benefit from it’s use including back & leg pain, arthritis and polymyalgia.
Pharmacology:
- Coumarins (scopoletin, scopaline) are uterine relaxants
- Hydroquinone glycosides (arbutin) have emmenagogue effects
Pharmacy: Decoction: 1 tbsp/cup water, 1-2 cups TID. Tincture: (1:5; 45%), 5-10 ml TID; for acute up to 5 ml q 1/2 hour or 30 ml q 3-4 h. Powder: 2-4 g TID. Externally as a rub or ointment.
Toxicity: No adverse effects expected. Fresh berries are toxic.
Contraindications: None known.
Interactions: None reported.
