==The benefits of Alder Buckthorn are==
The bark is alterative, astringent, cathartic, febrifuge and tonic.* The bark (and to a lesser extent the fruit) has been used as a laxative, due to its 3 – 7% anthraquinone content. Bark for medicinal use is dried and stored for a year before use, as fresh bark is violently purgative; even dried bark can be dangerous if taken in excess.
* Treating constipation. Alder buckthorn seems to work about as well as [[Cascara]].
* Ingredient in the [[Hoxsey]] cancer formula.
* A decoction of the dried bark is used to bathe swellings and inflammations, especially of the mouth and throat.
* The powdered bark and the leaves have been used as an internal astringent and tonic, whilst the bark has also been used as an internal and external haemostatic against haemorrhage.
* Boiling the inner bark in vinegar produces a useful wash to treat lice and a range of skin problems such as scabies and scabs. The liquid can also be used as a toothwash.
* The leaves are astringent, galactogogue and vermifuge. They are used to help reduce breast engorgement in nursing mothers.
* A decoction of the leaves is used in folk remedies for treating cancer of the breast, duodenum, oesophagus, face, pylorus, pancreas, rectum, throat, tongue, and uterus.
[[Category:Treatments]]
[[Category:herbal medicine]]