Glucofrangulin

PhytochemicalAnthraquinone glycosideBest before bed

What is it

Glucofrangulins are anthraquinone glycosides found in the bark of buckthorn species, particularly Rhamnus frangula (alder buckthorn) and Frangula alnus. They are the principal active laxative compounds in these traditional herbal remedies.

Evidence for 1 use

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

Short-term constipation relief

Good Evidence

Buckthorn-based hydroxyanthracene laxatives have documented effectiveness for short-term constipation relief, though regulators now recommend caution due to safety concerns at higher doses.

How it works

Glucofrangulins pass through the small intestine largely intact and are converted by colonic bacteria into active anthrones. The anthrones irritate the colonic mucosa and increase water and electrolyte secretion, producing a laxative effect within 6 to 12 hours. Like other hydroxyanthracene laxatives, long-term use is associated with electrolyte loss, melanosis coli, and EU regulatory concerns about genotoxicity at high doses.

Dosage

Buckthorn-based laxative products are dosed to deliver approximately 20 to 30 mg of hydroxyanthracene derivatives per day, calculated as glucofrangulin A. Use is short-term only.

When and how to take it

Stimulant laxatives are typically taken at bedtime so the effect occurs in the morning. Short-term use only (no more than 1 to 2 weeks).

1 commercial form

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

Buckthorn bark (Rhamnus frangula)

Standardized extracts deliver consistent hydroxyanthracene content. Subject to EU restrictions.

Glucofrangulins activated by colonic bacteria.

Safety

Reported risks include cramping, electrolyte loss (particularly potassium), and dependency with chronic use. EFSA has expressed safety concerns about chronic hydroxyanthracene supplement intake.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy, breastfeeding, children, intestinal obstruction, inflammatory bowel disease, and severe dehydration. Do not use long-term.

Interactions

Potassium loss can interact with digoxin, diuretics, and antiarrhythmic drugs. Concurrent use with other laxatives can compound effects.

Frequently asked questions

Are buckthorn laxatives safe?⌄

Short-term use is effective. Long-term use carries risks of electrolyte loss and dependency, and EU regulators have flagged broader safety concerns.

How long can I use them?⌄

Limit to 1 to 2 weeks at most. See a clinician if constipation persists, since chronic laxative use can cause its own problems.

References

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

Research on Glucofrangulin (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.