Viburnum prunifolium
Viburnum prunifolium Common name: Black Haw
Family: Caprifolicaceae
Part Used: Dried cortex (bark)
Constituents: Flavonoids, coumarins (scopoletin), iridoid glycosides, triterpenes, phenolic acid (salicin, chlorogenic acid), tannins, oleanolic & ursolic acid
Actions: Antispasmodic (especially uterine & bronchial), sedative, astringent, anti-asthmatic, hypotensive, bitter, uterine tonic, diuretic
Medicinal use: Is primarily an antispasmodic and is a balancer if hypo/hypertensive states. It has a specific use during threatened miscarriage especially with hypertension. It has great use for uterine inflammations/irritations and generally as a uterine tonic. Can be used for muscle & leg cramps and lumbar pain both topically and internally.
Pharmacology:
Pharmacy: Decoction: 1 tbsp/cup water, 1-2 cups TID. Tincture: (1:5; 60%), 5-10 ml TID. Powder: 2-5 g TID. Externally as a rub or ointment.
Toxicity: No adverse effects expected with recommended dosages.
Contraindications: With kidney stone due to presence of oxalates in the dried bark, however oxalates are insoluble in water.
Interactions: Avoid in aspirin sensitivity. Theoretically interaction with anticoagulants