10 Possible Side Effects Of Frangula Alnus (Alder Buckthorn)

Frangula alnus has some side effects when used improperly, such as diarrhea, nausea, and stomach cramps.

These side effects occur due to the herb's high sennoside content, which can cause an excessive laxative effect. If left unchecked, these symptoms can worsen, leading to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and malnutrition, ultimately affecting daily life and productivity.

In severe cases, they may also exacerbate underlying conditions like kidney disease or heart problems.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Frangula alnus if used imporperly.

1. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Frangula alnus causes allergic reactions.

The allergenic compounds present in Frangula alnus, such as anthraquinone glycosides and tannins, can trigger an immune response in some individuals. This may lead to symptoms like hives, itching, and skin rashes.

Additionally, the consumption of Frangula alnus can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, including nausea and diarrhea, in people who are sensitive to its active compounds.

2. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Frangula alnus triggers skin rashes due to its high concentration of anthraquinone glycosides, a class of compounds known for their irritating and allergenic properties.

These compounds can cause skin reactions ranging from mild redness and itching to more severe conditions such as eczema and dermatitis.

The exact mechanism by which Frangula alnus induces these adverse effects is not fully understood, but it is thought that the glycosides stimulate an immune response, leading to inflammation and tissue damage in sensitive individuals.

3. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Frangula alnus induces digestive issues due to its ability to slow down bowel movements and reduce gut motility.

This is attributed to the presence of anthraquinone glycosides, a type of bioactive compound that can affect the muscles in the digestive tract, leading to constipation or even diarrhea in some individuals.

Additionally, Frangula alnus may also interact with other medications, further contributing to digestive discomfort.

4. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Frangula alnus produces gastrointestinal upset due to its anthraquinone glycosides, which can irritate the mucous membranes in the digestive tract.

The active ingredients, particularly emodin and rhein, cause a laxative effect, leading to stomach cramps, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

This adverse reaction is attributed to the way these compounds interact with the gut flora, altering the normal balance of bacteria and disrupting the body's natural digestion processes.

5. Disrupts menstrual cycles

6. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Frangula alnus interferes with blood pressure due to its ability to stimulate the cardiovascular system and increase heart rate.

The anthraquinone glycosides present in Frangula alnus can cause vasodilation, leading to a decrease in blood pressure.

Additionally, the plant's flavonoids may also contribute to this effect by inhibiting the activity of certain enzymes involved in blood pressure regulation.

7. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Frangula alnus affects liver function by altering the way it processes certain substances.

The anthraquinone glycosides present in the plant may cause an increase in bile production, leading to changes in liver enzyme levels and potentially interfering with the metabolism of medications.

As a result, individuals using Frangula alnus may experience altered liver function, which can impact the efficacy or toxicity of other drugs.

8. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Frangula alnus increases risk of bleeding due to its ability to interact with platelet aggregation and anticoagulant medications.

The saponins present in Frangula alnus may enhance the effects of blood thinners, leading to prolonged bleeding times.

Additionally, the plant's flavonoids can inhibit platelet activity, further increasing the risk of bleeding complications.

9. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Frangula alnus lowers blood sugar levels by increasing insulin secretion and improving glucose uptake in the body's cells.

The saponins present in Frangula alnus extract stimulate the pancreas to produce more insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels.

This effect is likely due to the herb's ability to increase the expression of genes involved in insulin signaling pathways, leading to a reduction in blood glucose levels.

10. Disrupts menstrual cycles

Frangula alnus causes urinary retention due to its ability to increase the contraction of the bladder muscles, making it difficult for urine to flow out.

This is a result of the plant's anthraquinone glycosides, which stimulate the nerves in the urinary tract and increase muscle tone.

As the muscles contract, the urethra is narrowed, leading to incomplete emptying of the bladder and the sensation of needing to urinate frequently.