Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Buckthorn (commonly referring to species like Rhamnus cathartica or Frangula alnus) has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, but its primary application has been as a laxative rather than for the prevention or treatment of colds. However, in some traditional European and folk medicine practices, buckthorn and related species have been used in remedies intended to “cleanse” the body or support general health, which sometimes included use during illnesses such as colds. These uses are based on the belief that promoting elimination and detoxification could help the body resist or recover from respiratory infections. It is important to note, however, that there is little direct traditional documentation specifically supporting buckthorn for cold prevention, and it is not a prominent remedy for colds in major traditional systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine or Ayurveda.

From a scientific perspective, there is no substantial clinical evidence or well-conducted studies supporting the use of buckthorn for the prevention or treatment of colds. Its active compounds (anthraquinones) primarily affect the digestive tract and have not been shown to possess direct antiviral or immune-boosting effects relevant to colds. In summary, while there is some minor traditional precedent for using buckthorn in the context of general illness, its use for colds is minimally supported and not validated by scientific research.

More about buckthorn
More about Colds (prevention)

Other ingredients used for Colds (prevention)

Other health conditions supported by buckthorn

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