Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Buckthorn (most commonly referring to Rhamnus cathartica or Rhamnus frangula) has a history of use in traditional herbal medicine, primarily as a laxative and for its purported detoxifying properties. Its use for bites and stings, however, is less prominent and largely anecdotal. In some European folk traditions and herbal compendiums, poultices or topical applications of buckthorn bark or leaves have been used to alleviate the discomfort from insect bites and stings, likely due to its anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial properties observed in vitro. However, these practices are not widespread, and there are no well-documented, controlled clinical trials or robust pharmacological studies specifically validating buckthorn for this indication. Most references to buckthorn for bites and stings are found in older herbal texts or traditional remedy guides, rather than in modern phytotherapy or evidence-based medicine. As such, the evidence is weak and rated low (1/5), reflecting its primary basis in tradition and the lack of scientific validation. It is also important to note that buckthorn bark can be irritating to the skin and is generally not recommended for topical use due to the risk of dermatitis or other adverse reactions.

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