Black Haw Bark

Also known as

Viburnum prunifolium. American sloe, stagbush, Southern Black Haw, Stag Bush, Viburnum, Viburnum lentago, Viburnum rufidulum.

Introduction

The black haw is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the honeysuckle family. It is native to North America and grows in moist woods, thickets, and along stream banks. Its red berries ripen in August, and gradually turn blue through the winter. The berries are edible and may be eaten of the bush or made into jams or preserves. The root bark is collected in autumn; the stem bark in spring and summer.

Constituents

Acetic acid, amentoflavone, arbutin, esculetin, myristic acid, oleanolic acid, salicylic acid, scopoletin, tannins, ursolic acid.

Parts Used

Dried bark.

Typical Preparations

Tablets, tea, tincture.

Summary

Much of the knowledge regarding black haw was recorded in the medical and herbal textbook, King's American Dispensatory in 1854.

Precautions

Black haw is safe in pregnancy, and may even prevent miscarriage. Its use is not recommended by those with a history of liver and/or kidney problems and its use may produce gastrointestinal upset.

For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.