By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 20, 2024
10 Medicinal Constituents Of Frangula Alnus (Alder Buckthorn)
Frangula alnus has active constituents such as anthraquinones, flavonoids, and terpenoids.
These compounds contribute to its medicinal properties, including laxative, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. The anthraquinones, specifically, help stimulate bowel movements, relieving constipation and promoting regular digestion.
By improving digestive function, people can experience reduced symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), enhanced nutrient absorption, and overall better gut health.
This article explains in details the 10 best active constituents of Frangula alnus.
1. Anthraquinones
Frangula alnus anthraquinones is a class of bioactive compounds found in the fruit and bark of this plant.
These compounds have been studied for their potential medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activities.
Frangula alnus anthraquinones have also been shown to exhibit antiproliferative effects on cancer cells, making them a promising area of research for cancer treatment and prevention.
2. Alnusiin
Frangula alnus alnusiin is a bioactive compound isolated from the bark of Frangula alnus, a deciduous shrub native to Europe and Asia.
Alnusiin has been extensively studied for its potential health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It has also shown promise in treating various diseases, such as cardiovascular disorders, diabetes, and cancer.
Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action and efficacy of alnusiin.
3. Quercetin
Frangula alnus quercetin is a bioflavonoid compound extracted from its bark and leaves.
It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat various health issues such as digestive problems, skin conditions, and inflammation.
Quercetin has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.
4. Kaempferol
Frangula alnus kaempferol is a flavonoid glycoside that has been isolated from the fruit of the alder buckthorn plant.
It is a naturally occurring compound with potential medicinal properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.
Kaempferol has been studied for its ability to protect against oxidative stress and cell damage, as well as its role in cardiovascular health and cancer prevention.
5. Frangulin
Frangula alnus frangulin is a bioactive compound extracted from the bark of the plant.
It has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Frangulin has been shown to have potential therapeutic applications, including reducing inflammation, improving wound healing, and protecting against oxidative stress.
Its bioavailability and low toxicity make it an attractive candidate for further research and development as a natural remedy.
6. Rhamnosides
Frangula alnus rhamnosides is a type of bioactive compound found in the plant's berries and bark.
These compounds have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, making them potentially useful for treating various health conditions.
Rhamnosides have also been studied for their potential role in improving digestion and reducing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
7. Tannins
Frangula alnus tannins is a group of complex polyphenolic compounds that are responsible for its medicinal properties.
These tannins, specifically anthraquinones and hydrolysable tannins, have been traditionally used to treat various health issues such as diarrhea, dysentery, and even cancer.
They exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral activities, making Frangula alnus a valuable herb in traditional medicine.
8. Flavonoids
Frangula alnus flavonoids is a type of bioactive compound found in the plant's bark and leaves.
These flavonoids have been extensively studied for their potential health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
The flavonoids present in Frangula alnus have been shown to exhibit significant activity against various disease-causing microorganisms, making them a promising area of research for the development of new therapeutic agents.
9. Phenolic acids
Frangula alnus phenolic acids is a group of compounds that are responsible for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These phenolic acids, including gallic acid, ellagic acid, and quercetin, have been shown to exhibit potent antimicrobial and antiviral activities.
They have also been reported to possess anticancer properties, making Frangula alnus a valuable source of natural compounds for the development of new therapeutic agents.
10. Saponins
Frangula alnus saponins is a complex mixture of triterpenoid glycosides found in the plant's bark and fruit.
These compounds have been traditionally used in herbal medicine for their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and laxative properties.
Saponins are believed to interact with cell membranes, causing changes in permeability and potentially leading to improved digestion and gut health.