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BUCKTHORN
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(Rhamnus catharticus)
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Other Names
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Alder Buckthorn, Alder Dogwood, Arrow Wood, Black Alder Tree, European Black
Alder, Persian Berries.
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Description
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Buckthorn is a shrub that grows to 25 feet,. producing upt o 6 green flowers per
stem. The
flower clusters then produce a 3 seeded green berry, that turns red to purplish black when
ripe.
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Classification
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Dry
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Taste
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Sweet, Salty, Bitter
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Balance Yin/Yang
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Cool
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Humor
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Uses/Applications
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Buckthorn is an effective and safe laxative if the directions are carefully
followed.
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Combinations
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Constituents
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Anthraquinone, Derivates.
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Action
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Potent Laxative
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Food Values
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None
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Part Used
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Berries, Bark.
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Collection
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Collect the berries in early fall. The bark may be collected
anytime but the shrub must be at least 1 year old and is best between 3 and 4 years of
age.
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Preparation
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Decoction
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Use 1 Tsp. bark with ½ cup cold water, then bring to a
boil. Drink before bed.
Do not use more than 14 gr. of bark per
day.
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Infusion
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Pour a cup of boiling water over 1 Tsp. dried berries. Infuse 15
minutes. Drink in the morning or at night - it takes 12 hours to
work.
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Syrup
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The berry juice is boiled with sugar to get a syrup. Take 2 Tbsp. per
day.
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Tincture
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Take 5 - 20 drops per day.
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Growing Directions
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Buckthorn is not cultivated.
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History
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Buckthorn became popular as a healing herb about 1000 years
ago. Through
the ages it was used for jaundice, hemorrhoids, gout, arthritis, and as a
laxative. It
has a long history as a cancer treatment.
Buckthorn is one of the ingredients in the popular but highly
controversial Hoxsey Cancer Formula.
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Additional Information
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1. Buckthorn seeds are used in commercial laxatives. It is a potent laxative, that
is so powerful physicians advise using it only as a last resort.
2. The Journal of National Cancer Institute published research that indicates
Buckthorn may have anti tumor qualities.
3. Most herbalist’s recommend drying the bark for at least 2 years prior to
usage.
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Cautions
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1. Do not take if pregnant.
2. Excessive doses of the berries can be poisonous.
3. If the bark is not dried thoroughly it will cause vomiting, abdominal pain,
and violent diarrhea.
4. Do not use for more than 2 weeks at a time.
5. Do not use if you have gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers, colitis,
or hemorrhoids.
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Magick Information
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Gender:
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Feminine
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Planet:
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Saturn
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Element:
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Water
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Deity:
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None
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Powers:
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Protection
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Magickal Uses:
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To protect your home place Buckthorn branches near the doors and
windows.
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