10 Health Benefits Of Frangula Alnus (Alder Buckthorn)

Frangula alnus, also known as alder buckthorn, has health benefits such as reducing inflammation and alleviating digestive issues due to its rich content of anthraquinone glycosides.

These medicinal properties enable the plant to stimulate bowel movements and treat constipation. People suffering from chronic constipation or irritable bowel syndrome can find relief with the use of Frangula alnus, leading to improved gut health and overall well-being.

Regular consumption can also enhance nutrient absorption.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Frangula alnus.

1. Alleviates constipation

Frangula alnus alleviates constipation because of its unique properties.

The plant's berries and bark contain anthraquinone glycosides, which stimulate the muscles in the digestive tract to contract and move stool through the intestine more efficiently.

This helps to soften stools, making them easier to pass, while also increasing bowel movement frequency and reducing symptoms of constipation such as bloating and straining.

2. Cleanses the colon

Frangula alnus cleanses the colon because it contains anthraquinone glycosides, such as rhein and aloe-emodin, which stimulate bowel movements and promote regularity.

These compounds also help to soften stool and reduce inflammation in the digestive tract, making it easier for the body to eliminate toxins and waste products.

Additionally, alder buckthorn's bitter properties can help to stimulate digestion and improve gut motility, further supporting a healthy colon.

3. Reduces inflammation

Frangula alnus reduces inflammation because of its rich antioxidant and flavonoid content.

The plant's bioactive compounds, such as anthraquinones and lignans, have been shown to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory molecules, thereby reducing swelling and pain in the body.

Additionally, aldert buckthorn has been found to suppress inflammatory responses by activating pathways that promote anti-inflammatory signaling, making it a potential natural remedy for alleviating inflammation-related disorders.

4. Treats diarrhea

Frangula alnus treats diarrhea because of its unique properties.

The fruit of this plant contains anthraquinone glycosides, which are potent laxatives that stimulate the colon and increase bowel movements.

When ingested, these compounds help to normalize digestive function by increasing water absorption in the intestines and reducing inflammation, thereby alleviating symptoms of diarrhea.

5. Boosts immune system

Frangula alnus boosts immune system because it contains a variety of bioactive compounds that exhibit immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties.

The fruit extracts have been shown to stimulate the production of cytokines, which help to activate the immune response against pathogens and diseases.

Additionally, the flavonoids present in Frangula alnus have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, further enhancing its immune-boosting effects.

6. Combats obesity

Frangula alnus combats obesity because it has been found to have potent anti-obesity properties.

The plant's extracts have been shown to inhibit the absorption of dietary fats and sugars, leading to a reduction in body weight and fat mass.

Additionally, alder buckthorn has been found to stimulate the production of adiponectin, a protein that helps to regulate glucose and fatty acid metabolism, further contributing to its anti-obesity effects.

7. Regulates blood sugar

Frangula alnus regulates blood sugar because of its unique compounds called anthraquinones.

These compounds have been shown to inhibit the absorption of glucose in the gut, reducing the amount of sugar that enters the bloodstream and subsequently lowering blood sugar levels.

Additionally, the anthraquinones can also stimulate the pancreas to release more insulin, further aiding in the regulation of blood sugar.

8. Prevents tumor growth

Frangula alnus prevents tumor growth because of its rich composition of anthraquinones and other bioactive compounds.

These molecules have been shown to exhibit anti-cancer properties by inhibiting the proliferation of cancer cells, inducing apoptosis (cell death), and suppressing angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels that feed tumors).

Additionally, alder buckthorn has been found to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy agents, making it a promising adjunctive therapy in the treatment of various types of cancers.

9. Improves heart health

Frangula alnus improves heart health because it is rich in anthraquinones, a type of flavonoid that helps to lower cholesterol levels and improve blood lipid profiles.

The herb's antioxidant properties also help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the cardiovascular system, which can contribute to the development of heart disease.

Additionally, alder buckthorn has been shown to have antiplatelet effects, which can help to prevent the formation of blood clots that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

10. Enhances liver function

Frangula alnus enhances liver function because of its rich antioxidant and flavonoid composition.

The plant's extracts have been shown to stimulate the production of bile acids in the liver, improving gallbladder function and promoting the removal of toxins from the body.

Additionally, the anthraquinones present in Frangula alnus have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help protect the liver from damage caused by oxidative stress.