Viburnum prunifolium
Other names: American Sloe, King’s Crown, Sheepberry, Snowball Tree, Stagbush
PARTS USED
Bark, root bark.
USES
Native American women took black haw for medicinal purposes long before the European settlement of North America. They drank decoctions of black haw bark to treat menopause and menstrual cramps, to ease pains following childbirth, and to prevent miscarriage. Related species were used to treat ailments ranging from blood disorders to migraines. Highly valued by the Eclectics, black haw bark soothes irritation in the womb, making this herb a potent aid for women with histories of pregnancy difficulties. Black haw contains scopoletin, a uterine relaxant, perhaps verifying its traditional uses. This bark continues to be popular among modern herbalists.
Black haw is antispasmodic and astringent, and is regarded as a specific treatment for menstrual pain. Echoing its 19th-century applications; the bark is also used to treat other gynecological conditions, such as prolapse of the uterus, heavy menopausal bleeding, morning sickness, and threatened miscarriage. Black haw’s antispasmodic property makes it of value in cases where colic or other cramping pain affects the bile ducts, the digestive tract, or the urinary tract.
HOW MUCH TO TAKE
Decoction: put 2 teaspoonfuls of the dried bark in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.
Tincture: take 5 – 10 ml of the tincture three times a day.