Cramp Bark
Viburnum opulus – bark
Cramp Bark shows by it’s name the reputation it has as a relaxer of muscular tension and spasm. It is able to relax both skeletal muscle and smooth muscle.
It has two main areas of use. Firstly in muscular cramps and secondly in ovarian and uterine muscle problems such as painful cramps.
It has an astringent action where it helps with excessive blood loss in periods and bleeding associated with menopause.
Actions
Primary: spasmolytic, hypotensive, peripheral vasodilator.
Secondary: sedative (mild), astringent.
Indications
- Relief of dysmenorrhoea, ovarian pain and leg cramps.
Notes
V. opulus and V. prunifolium are mainly used for cramps, including menstrual cramps and muscle cramping associated with arthritis. Also used by native Americans for swollen glands, mumps and eye disorders, and as a diuretic. Sedative action on the uterus.
Contra-indications and Cautions
None known.
Professional supervision is suggested for pregnancy and lactation.
