Synopsis

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

Viburnum species, particularly Viburnum opulus (commonly known as cramp bark) and Viburnum prunifolium (black haw), have a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine for the relief of muscle cramps and spasms, especially uterine cramps associated with menstruation. Native American and European herbal traditions have both employed these plants for their purported antispasmodic effects. Key traditional texts from the 19th and early 20th centuries frequently cite cramp bark and black haw as remedies for dysmenorrhea and to prevent miscarriage due to uterine spasm.

The presumed active constituents include various coumarins, salicylates, and iridoid glycosides, which are suggested to possess smooth muscle relaxant properties. However, robust clinical evidence is lacking. Most support comes from animal studies, older pharmacological studies, and anecdotal reports rather than rigorous human trials. Modern systematic reviews and clinical studies are sparse, and the mechanism of action remains speculative. As such, while traditional use is well-documented and there is plausible biological rationale, the evidence base from a scientific or clinical standpoint is weak, warranting a relatively low rating.

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