Black haw

Viburnum prunifolium

Traditionally attributed effect: antispasmodic and relaxing, especially for menstrual and uterine cramps. Clinical research is lacking; that it can prevent miscarriage has not been shown.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Preparation

Decoction: 1 tbsp per cup, 2–4 cups a day; tincture: 1–2 dropperfuls 3–4 times a day, or every hour when symptoms occur.

Use in traditions

In the 19th century the root bark was used in the southern US for cramps and threatened miscarriage. Eclectic physicians adopted it as a uterine antispasmodic. The blue-black berries are edible.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Western herbalism

Attributed effects

Astringent, relaxing, antispasmodic; for menstrual cramps and PMS, relaxes the nervous system (also during pregnancy), may help prevent miscarriage, calms digestion.

Preparation and amount

Decoction: 1 tbsp per cup, 2–4 cups a day; tincture: 1–2 dropperfuls 3–4 times a day, or every hour when symptoms occur.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Tincture

Sources

All herbs from North America →