Rhamnus cathartica

By Anne Selseotes in 31 Mar 2021 | 14:20
Anne Selseotes

Anne Selseotes

Student
Posts: 22
Member since: 4 May 2020
Hello David, do you know the plant Rhamnus cathartica? It is very invasive here in southern Canada, and I am wondering about it's toxicity, for humans and for animals as sheep. It has a history of being used for it's medicinal properties (as a laxative, purgative, cathartic), as well as for dyes and wood. Cutting or burning enhances the propagation and growth and it competes with native plants. We are thinking of letting sheep graze to experiment if they will control the plant, but I can't find a lot of information if it will harm them. Thank you.
31 Mar 2021 | 14:20
0 Likes
Anne Selseotes

Anne Selseotes

Student
Posts: 22
Member since: 4 May 2020
Hi David, just a precision, I think it is the Rhamnus Frangula that we have.
31 Mar 2021 | 14:39
0 Likes
David Winston

David Winston

Instructor
Posts: 858
Member since: 22 Sep 2020
This is common Buckthorn used as a cathartic and strong laxative. The bark needs to dried and then aged for year before using and it is a habit forming stimulant laxative. Topically it is antibacterial. I haven clue as to how it would effect sheep, but it might cause intense diarrhea.
8 Apr 2021 | 15:41
0 Likes

Report

Please describe about the report short and clearly.

GDPR

When you visit any of our websites, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This information might be about you, your preferences or your device and is mostly used to make the site work as you expect it to. The information does not usually directly identify you, but it can give you a more personalized web experience. Because we respect your right to privacy, you can choose not to allow some types of cookies. Click on the different category headings to find out more and manage your preferences. Please note, that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.