Rhamnus cathartica
Rhamnus catharticica, commonly known as buckthorn, is a deciduous shrub valued in traditional medicine. Renowned for its potent laxative properties, its bark contains anthraquinone glycosides that stimulate intestinal motility. While effective for treating constipation, its high potency requires careful usage to avoid dehydration and severe abdominal cramping.
- Scientific name: Rhamnus cathartica
- Family: Rhamnaceae
- Native range: Europe
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and the phylum Streptophyta, falling under the class Equisetopsida and subclass Magnoliidae. Within the order Rosales, it is classified under the family Rhamnaceae and the genus Rhamnus.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Rosales | WCVP |
| Family | Rhamnaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Rhamnus | WCVP |
Distribution
This plant exhibits a specific distribution pattern across the northern regions of Europe. It can be found growing within the borders of Denmark and Finland. Additionally, its presence extends to the islands of Great Britain and Ireland. The species is also documented to inhabit the landscapes of Norway. Together, these locations define its primary geographical range in Northern Europe.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Europe | Denmark | WCVP |
| Northern Europe | Finland | WCVP |
| Northern Europe | Great Britain | WCVP |
| Northern Europe | Ireland | WCVP |
| Northern Europe | Norway | WCVP |
| Northern Europe | Sweden | WCVP |
| Middle Europe | Austria | WCVP |
| Middle Europe | Belgium | WCVP |
| Middle Europe | Czechia-Slovakia | WCVP |
| Middle Europe | Germany | WCVP |
Chemicals
Rhamnus cathartica has 1 reported phytochemicals identified across 2 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported chemicals include emodin.
- Total chemicals
- 1
- Scientific sources
- 2
Most Reported Compounds
| Compound | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| emodin | 2 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Medicinal Uses
Rhamnus cathartica has 4 reported medicinal uses identified across 4 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include Giardia lamblia, Parasitemia, Plasmodium berghei, malaria.
- Total uses
- 4
- Scientific sources
- 4
Most Reported Uses
| Use | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Giardia lamblia | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Parasitemia | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| Plasmodium berghei | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| malaria | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |