Alder Buckthorn

BotanicalBest before bed

What is it

Alder buckthorn (Frangula alnus, also Rhamnus frangula) is a European shrub whose aged bark is used as a stimulant laxative. The fresh bark causes severe vomiting and is not used.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Short-term constipation relief

Good Evidence

Recognized in European herbal monographs as a stimulant laxative with effects similar to senna.

How it works

The aged bark contains anthraquinone glycosides (frangulins) that colon bacteria convert into active forms. These stimulate intestinal motility and water secretion, producing a bowel movement 6-12 hours later. The mechanism is similar to senna and cascara sagrada.

Dosage

Standardized to deliver 10-30 mg of hydroxyanthracene derivatives per day, taken at bedtime.

When and how to take it

Taken at bedtime; effect in the morning. Not for daily long-term use.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Aged bark / decoction

Traditional preparation.

Anthraquinones activated by colon bacteria.

Standardized extract

Modern over-the-counter form.

Consistent dosing.

Safety

Effective for short-term constipation. Chronic use carries the same risks as other stimulant laxatives: electrolyte loss (especially potassium), dependence, and melanosis coli. Never use fresh bark.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in bowel obstruction, IBD flares, dehydration, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Not for children under 12 without medical advice.

Interactions

Potassium loss can affect digoxin, diuretics, and corticosteroids. May reduce absorption of other oral medications.

Food sources

Not a food

Amount
n/a
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is alder buckthorn the same as frangula?⌄

Yes. Frangula alnus is the modern scientific name for alder buckthorn. Both names refer to the same plant.

Can I use alder buckthorn every night?⌄

Not as a chronic strategy. Long-term stimulant laxative use can cause dependency, electrolyte problems, and melanosis coli. Address underlying causes of constipation first.

References

Alder Buckthorn on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Alder Buckthorn on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Alder Buckthorn (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Alder Buckthorn with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store
Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.