European Dogwood (Viburnum opulus)

European Dogwood (Viburnum opulus) is a member of the Caprifoliaceae family, native to Europe, Asia, and North America. Traditionally, its fruits, leaves, and bark have been used for decoctions, infusions, and powders.

This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, tonic, and astringent actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, traditional chinese medicine, and mediterranean herbal traditions.

European Dogwood (Viburnum opulus) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — European Dogwood (Viburnum opulus) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	European Dogwood
Scientific Name	Viburnum opulus
Plant Family	Caprifoliaceae
Genus	Viburnum
Species	opulus
Native Range	Europe, Asia, North America
Plant Parts Used	Fruits, Leaves, Bark
Primary Medicinal Actions	Anti-Inflammatory, Tonic, Astringent
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions
Historical Preparation Methods	Decoction, Infusion, Powder

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Viburnum opulus
Common Name: European Dogwood
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Guelder Rose, White-Flowered Dogwood, White-Berried Dogwood
Plant Family: Caprifoliaceae
Genus: Viburnum

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial shrub.
Height: It typically grows to a height of 2 to 5 meters.
Leaves: Opposite, ovate leaves with a glossy dark green upper surface and a lighter, often slightly hairy underside, featuring prominent stomatal bands along the midrib.
Flowers: White flowers arranged in dense clusters, actinomorphic, with five petals and five sepals, each petal with a distinct central vein and a narrow, elongated tip.
Stems: Erect, branched, with opposite leaves, smooth, hollow, and containing a single central canal.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Mediterranean Herbal Traditions

Historical Preparation Methods

Decoction
Infusion
Powder
Tincture

Medicinal Actions

Anti-inflammatory: Commonly referenced as a calming anti-inflammatory, in tissue-soothing contexts.
Tonic: Traditionally described as a cooling tonic, for foundational support.
Astringent: In herbal literature, noted as a mild astringent, in tissue-toning contexts.
Diuretic: In herbal texts, considered a gentle diuretic, for moisture-related balance.

Active Compounds

Flavonoid: A chemical class commonly identified in plant tissues, especially flowers and leaves.
Phenolic Acid: Organic acids commonly occurring as part of plant secondary metabolism.
Tannin: A class of polyphenolic compounds commonly found in bark, leaves, and seeds.
Coumarin: Organic compounds biosynthesized as part of plant secondary metabolism.

Modern Research Overview

Modern scientific investigation of this plant has focused on identifying its chemical constituents and examining their properties in controlled research settings. Comprehensive study summaries will be incorporated into this section as additional sources are reviewed.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: The use of this herb may warrant general caution in certain situations.
Contraindications: Available information does not clearly establish contraindications for the use of this herb.
Allergies: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb commonly causes allergic reactions.
Drug Interactions: The potential for interactions with prescription medications has not been extensively studied.
Toxicity: Toxic effects have been reported in association with the use of this herb.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding has not been clearly established in available sources.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Plant material is steeped in hot water to extract water-soluble compounds.
Decoction: Plant material is simmered in water to extract compounds from tougher parts.
Poultice: Fresh or dried plant material is applied externally to the skin.
Tincture: Alcohol is used as a solvent to extract plant constituents over time.
Extract: Extracts are created by dissolving plant material in a suitable non-alcoholic medium.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in partial shade. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers moderately moist soils. Tolerates moderate moisture fluctuations.