Black Haw

Botanical

What is it

Black haw (Viburnum prunifolium) is a small tree native to the eastern United States. Its bark has been used traditionally for menstrual cramps, threatened miscarriage, and uterine support.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea)

Limited Evidence

Traditional use is consistent and animal data support antispasmodic activity, but rigorous human clinical trials are absent.

How it works

Black haw bark contains scopoletin, aesculetin, valeric acid, and salicin. Traditional and Eclectic medical use focused on uterine relaxation for dysmenorrhea and prevention of miscarriage. Animal studies suggest uterine-relaxing activity, but human trial data are limited. The salicin content gives black haw mild antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory activity similar to other Salix-containing herbs.

Dosage

Traditional tincture doses are 1 to 3 mL up to three times daily. No standardized dose has been established.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken with the onset of menstrual cramps and continued during the painful days.

1 commercial form

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

Black haw bark tincture or extract

Available as alcohol tincture, glycerite, or dried bark capsule.

Not well characterized.

Safety

Considered safe at traditional doses in non-pregnant adults. May cause mild GI upset.

Who should be cautious

Pregnancy: historical use for threatened miscarriage occurred under specific traditional guidance and is not recommended without expert care. People with aspirin sensitivity should avoid due to salicin content.

Interactions

Theoretical interactions with anticoagulants due to salicin content. Caution with other sedating or uterine-active herbs.

Frequently asked questions

Does black haw help with period pain?⌄

Traditional use suggests yes. Modern evidence is limited.

Is black haw safe in pregnancy?⌄

It has historical use in specific contexts, but it should not be used in pregnancy without expert guidance.

References

Black Haw on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Black Haw on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Black Haw (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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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.