Viburnum Opulus: Complete Medicinal Profile
Viburnum opulus, also known as the European cranberrybush or guelder-rose, is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia.
It has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, particularly in treating various gastrointestinal issues and infections, due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds.
The health benefits of Viburnum opulus include its ability to reduce fever, alleviate digestive problems, and support the immune system.
Viburnum opulus can be prepared into herbal teas, infusions, or tinctures, often in combination with other herbs, to harness its medicinal properties and provide relief from various health issues.
Study of the Day
According to Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), Viburnum opulus contains phenolic compounds that have medicinal properties, specifically acting as natural antioxidants to prevent oxidative damage and potentially treating various diseases.
This page analize the most important medicinal aspects of Viburnum opulus.
Table of Contents
Uses and Benefits
Viburnum opulus is used to treat a variety of health issues, including digestive problems, such as diarrhea and constipation, as well as relieving symptoms of menopause, like hot flashes and mood swings.
This versatile plant has also been used to reduce inflammation, alleviate headaches and fever, and even help with wound healing.
Its health benefits also extend to supporting eye health, reducing menstrual cramps, and soothing respiratory issues like bronchitis and asthma.
Additionally, Viburnum opulus has been traditionally used to support immune function and even help with weight management, making it a valuable addition to a holistic health regimen.
The health benefits of Viburnum opulus are listed below.
- Ornamental value: Viburnum opulus is a popular ornamental shrub known for its attractive flowers, berries, and foliage, making it a great addition to gardens and landscapes.
- Wildlife habitat: The plant provides food and shelter for various wildlife, such as birds, small mammals, and insects, which rely on its berries and flowers for sustenance.
- Medicinal properties: Viburnum opulus has been used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, which can help treat various health conditions.
- Air purification: Like many plants, viburnum opulus helps purify the air by removing pollutants and toxins, improving indoor air quality and promoting a healthier environment.
- Soil erosion prevention: The plant's deep roots help prevent soil erosion and stabilize soil, making it an excellent choice for slopes and areas prone to landslides.
- Fragrance: Viburnum opulus produces fragrant flowers and berries, emitting a sweet, slightly spicy scent that attracts pollinators and adds to its ornamental value.
- Dye plant: The plant's berries can be used as a natural dye, producing a range of colors from pink to blue, making it a valuable resource for crafters and natural dye enthusiasts.
Here are the best health benefits of Viburnum opulus.
Actions
Viburnum opulus has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and diaphoretic properties, which primarily affect the musculoskeletal system, immune system, and respiratory system, reducing swelling, fighting infections, and relieving muscle spasms and fever.
It also exhibits antimicrobial, antitussive, expectorant, and nervine actions, influencing the cardiovascular system, digestive system, and nervous system, inhibiting the growth of microorganisms, soothing coughs, loosening mucus, and providing a calming effect.
Additionally, Viburnum opulus displays astringent, demulcent, diuretic, and vulnerary properties, affecting the skin, urinary system, and circulatory system, constricting tissues, protecting wounds, promoting urination, and facilitating the healing of damaged tissues.
Its anthelmintic, carminative, and styptic actions also impact the intestinal system, expelling parasites, relieving gas and digestive discomfort, and stopping bleeding.
The therapeutic actions of Viburnum opulus are listed below.
- Antiseptic: Prevents or inhibits the growth of microorganisms, reducing the risk of infection.
- Astringent: Helps to shrink or constrict body parts, such as blood vessels or tissues, to stop bleeding or reduce swelling.
- Cardiac: Relates to the heart, affecting heart rate, blood pressure, or cardiovascular health.
- Diuretic: Increases urine production, helping to remove excess fluids and salts from the body.
- Emmenagogue: Helps to stimulate menstrual flow or relieve menstrual cramps and other symptoms.
- Expectorant: Helps to loosen and clear mucus or phlegm from the respiratory tract, relieving coughs and congestion.
- Tonic: Helps to stimulate or invigorate the body, promoting overall health and well-being.
Constituents
Viburnum opulus has been found to contain a rich array of bioactive constituents, including flavonoids, such as kaempferol and quercetin, which exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation.
The plant also contains tannins, like gallic acid and epicatechin, which have antimicrobial and astringent properties, useful for fighting off infections and constricting blood vessels.
Additionally, viburnum opulus is rich in phenolic acids, including ferulic acid and sinapic acid, which possess strong antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic properties, helping to prevent cell damage and cancer.
Furthermore, the plant contains coumarins, like scopoletin and umbelliferone, which have anti-inflammatory and anticoagulant properties, useful for reducing inflammation and preventing blood clotting.
The bioactive constituents of Viburnum opulus are listed below.
- Tannins: A type of polyphenol that gives the plant its astringent properties.
- Flavonoids: A class of plant compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Saponins: A type of glycoside that can be found in the roots and stems of the plant, known for their foaming properties.
- Coumarins: A type of plant compound known for their anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Phenolic acids: A type of plant compound known for their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
- Terpenoids: A class of plant compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Alkaloids: A class of plant compounds known for their diverse biological activities, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
Parts
The most commonly used parts of Viburnum opulus are the berries, leaves, and roots, which have been employed for various health purposes.
The berries, rich in vitamins and minerals, are used to treat digestive issues, such as constipation and diarrhea, and are also consumed as a natural remedy for fever and inflammation.
The leaves, which contain compounds with antimicrobial properties, are used to treat skin conditions like eczema and acne, as well as to alleviate symptoms of colds and flu.
Additionally, the roots are used to treat fever, rheumatism, and other inflammatory conditions, and are also employed as a natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agent.
The following table displays the most used parts of of Viburnum opulus and examples of ailments they help cure.
| Parts | Ailments |
|---|---|
| Leaves | Fever, diarrhea, rheumatism |
| Flowers | Respiratory issues, skin problems, urinary issues |
| Bark | Gastrointestinal issues, eczema, skin conditions |
Preparations
Viburnum opulus most common herbal preparations are infusions, tinctures, and salves, which are widely used for various health purposes.
Infusions, made by steeping the leaves and flowers in hot water, are often used to alleviate digestive issues, such as bloating and indigestion, and to soothe anxiety and insomnia.
Tinctures, made by extracting the plant's active compounds with a solvent like ethanol, are commonly used to treat colds and flu, reduce inflammation, and alleviate menstrual cramps.
Salves, made by infusing the plant's leaves and flowers in a carrier oil, are often used to treat wounds, skin irritations, and minor burns, as well as to reduce fever and alleviate respiratory issues such as bronchitis.
The herbal preparations of Viburnum opulus are listed below.
- Viburnum opulus infusion: A herbal tea made by steeping the leaves and flowers of viburnum opulus in hot water, often used to aid in digestion and reduce inflammation.
- Viburnum opulus tincture: A concentrated liquid extract of viburnum opulus, often used to treat fever, rheumatism, and skin conditions.
- Viburnum opulus salve: A topical ointment made from the leaves and flowers of viburnum opulus, often used to soothe skin irritations and wounds.
- Viburnum opulus infused oil: A herbal oil infused with the leaves and flowers of viburnum opulus, often used to treat skin conditions and promote wound healing.
- Viburnum opulus capsules: A dried and powdered form of viburnum opulus, often used as a dietary supplement to support immune function and reduce inflammation.
- Viburnum opulus syrup: A sweet liquid extract of viburnum opulus, often used to treat coughs and soothe sore throats.
- Viburnum opulus decoction: A strong herbal tea made by boiling the roots of viburnum opulus, often used to treat digestive issues and reduce fever.
Side Effects
Viburnum opulus side effects are a concern for individuals who consume its parts, as it can cause gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.
Those with sensitive stomachs or allergies are most likely to experience these side effects, especially if they ingest large quantities of the plant.
Precautions should be taken to avoid accidental ingestion, as viburnum opulus can also cause allergic skin reactions, respiratory problems, and headaches.
Furthermore, excessive consumption may lead to more severe side effects, including convulsions, tremors, and even coma in extreme cases.
The possible side effects of Viburnum opulus are listed below.
- Gastrointestinal upset: Excessive consumption of viburnum opulus may cause stomach discomfort, nausea, and vomiting due to the presence of tannins and other compounds.
- Allergic reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, including skin rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing, after coming into contact with viburnum opulus or its extracts.
- Dizziness and headaches: Ingestion of viburnum opulus may lead to dizziness, headaches, and lightheadedness due to its vasodilatory properties and potential interactions with blood pressure regulation.
- Diarrhea and abdominal pain: Consuming large amounts of viburnum opulus may cause diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and gastrointestinal discomfort due to its astringent and antispasmodic properties.
- Interactions with medications: Viburnum opulus may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, and blood pressure medications, which can lead to adverse effects and complications.
- Skin irritation and inflammation: Direct contact with viburnum opulus or its extracts may cause skin irritation, inflammation, and redness due to its alkaloid and glycoside content.
- Cardiovascular issues: In rare cases, excessive consumption of viburnum opulus may lead to cardiovascular issues, including irregular heartbeat, palpitations, and decreased blood pressure, due to its effects on the cardiovascular system.