Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus)
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- Female Reproductive
- 1 condition
- Licensed photo
Overview
Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus) is a deciduous shrub or small tree growing to about 13 ft (4 m). It has lobed leaves, clusters of white flowers, and red oval berries. As the name suggests, cramp bark is known to relieve muscular spasms - particularly of the smooth muscle in the uterus - making it a popular remedy for menstrual cramps, tension, and certain types of colic or back pain. It also exhibits mild sedative and relaxant actions.
Traditional uses & properties
Antispasmodic & Relaxing: Eases muscle tension (uterine, intestinal, skeletal). Anti-abortive: Traditionally used to help prevent miscarriage by calming uterine spasms. Sedative & Astringent: Mildly soothes the nervous system and tones tissues.
Traditional preparations
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person.
Make a tincture and take half a tsp diluted with hot water twice a day.
Make a decoction and take 1/3 cup (75 ml) every 3 hours.
Safety & precautions
Low Blood Pressure: May lower blood pressure further; caution is advised for hypotensive individuals. General Use: Considered relatively safe, but best to consult a practitioner if combining with other treatments.
Drug & food interactions
Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.
Habitat
Cramp bark grows in woodlands, thickets, and hedges in both Europe and eastern North America. Propagation is typically from seed in autumn. The bark from the branches is collected in spring or summer when the plant is in bloom.
Traditionally used for
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Frequently asked questions
What is Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) traditionally used for?
Traditional sources describe Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) as follows: Antispasmodic & Relaxing: Eases muscle tension (uterine, intestinal, skeletal). Anti-abortive: Traditionally used to help prevent miscarriage by calming uterine spasms. Sedative & Astringent: Mildly soothes the nervous system and tones tissues.
How is Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) prepared?
Traditional texts describe the preparations below, and where those texts give specific amounts, the amounts are quoted here as part of that record. This is a record of historical practice, not a dosage recommendation - the figures are what the sources say, not what HerbMate tells you to take. Amounts, potency, and safe use vary enormously by preparation, plant part, and person. Irritable Bowel Syndrome: Make a tincture and take half a tsp diluted with hot water twice a day. Menstrual Pain: Make a decoction and take 1/3 cup (75 ml) every 3 hours.
What safety cautions apply to Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus)?
Low Blood Pressure: May lower blood pressure further; caution is advised for hypotensive individuals. General Use: Considered relatively safe, but best to consult a practitioner if combining with other treatments.
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