Guelder Rose/Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) | Equitatio

Common Names: Guelder Rose, European Cranberrybush, Cramp Bark, Water Elder
Scientific Name: Viburnum opulus
Family: Adoxaceae
Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
Habitat: Native to Europe and parts of Asia, Guelder Rose can be found in woodlands, moist ground, and along riverbanks. It is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and bright red berries.

Height: Can grow up to 3 meters tall
Leaves: Large, opposite, coarsely toothed, and lobed, turning vibrant red in the autumn
Flowers: White, flat-topped clusters, appearing in spring or early summer, followed by red berries
Berries: Bright red and glossy, resembling cranberries, but toxic if consumed in large amounts without proper preparation
Bark: Smooth, with a light brown or grayish color, particularly useful in its medicinal form when used as cramp bark

Bark: The bark, especially from younger stems, is the most commonly used part in herbal medicine, particularly for its muscle-relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties.
Leaves: Occasionally used in herbal applications but less commonly than the bark.
Berries: Used sparingly and mostly for their aesthetic or astringent qualities, but caution is needed as they can be toxic in large quantities.
Flowers: Sometimes used in traditional herbal remedies, mainly in tinctures or infusions.

Cramp and Muscle Spasm Relief: The bark of the Guelder Rose is well-known for its muscle-relaxing properties and has historically been used as a remedy for muscle cramps and spasms in horses. It can help alleviate discomfort associated with musculoskeletal conditions or colic.
Anti-inflammatory: The herb has anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to reduce inflammation in joints, muscles, or the digestive tract.
Digestive Tonic: Ground bark and leaves have mild antispasmodic effects and can help soothe gastric upset or intestinal cramps.

Tincture: Guelder Rose tincture can be added to their feed to help relieve spasms or digestive issues.
Infusion or Tea: Dried bark can be steeped in hot water to make a tea, which can then be added to the horse’s feed or water for digestive or muscle relief.
Poultice: A poultice made from the bark can be applied to sore muscles or joints for a soothing anti-inflammatory effect.

Toxicity of berries: The berries should never be consumed in large quantities as they are mildly toxic, causing digestive upset.
Pregnancy: Consult with a veterinarian before administering Guelder Rose during pregnancy, as its muscle-relaxant properties could be contraindicated.

Anti-spasmodic and Muscle Relaxant: Guelder Rose bark is used in dogs to relieve muscle spasms and cramps. It may also be beneficial for dogs suffering from conditions like seizures or joint stiffness.
Digestive Aid: It can help relieve gastric discomfort, bloating, and intestinal cramps due to its mild antispasmodic effects.
Calming: The herb has a mild calming effect and can be helpful in treating stress-induced digestive issues or mild anxiety in dogs.

Tincture: Tincture can be given once or twice a day.in their food or water.
Infusion: Brew a mild infusion by steeping dried bark in hot water. Once cooled, give the infusion to the dog directly or mix it with food.
Poultice: A poultice made from the bark can be used to soothe external muscle or joint pain.

Toxicity of berries: Dogs should not consume the berries in large amounts, as they may cause nausea, vomiting, or digestive distress.
Overuse: Large doses of Guelder Rose could cause nausea or vomiting due to its saponin content.

Traditional Medicinal Use: Historically, Guelder Rose was used in the UK as a cramp bark to relieve muscle spasms, particularly in childbirth and digestive issues. It was commonly employed by herbalists to ease menstrual cramps and gastrointestinal distress.
Tinctures and Infusions: In the Isle of Man, Guelder Rose was traditionally used in tinctures for easing nervous tension and muscle pain, and also to support the digestive system.
Magical Significance: The bright red berries were sometimes used in protective charms and amulets, believed to ward off evil spirits or bad luck. The plant was considered to have protective and healing properties.
Brewed as a Remedy: The leaves, bark, and flowers were often boiled to make a tea or decoction used for general health and to reduce fevers.

Feature	Details
Main Uses	Muscle spasms, anti-inflammatory, digestive tonic, stress relief
Parts Used	Bark (primary), leaves, flowers, berries (sparingly)
Equine Use	Muscle cramps, anti-inflammatory, digestive support
Canine Use	Muscle spasms, digestive aid, calming, stress relief
Folklore	Used as cramp bark, digestive tonic, and in protective charms