Buckthorn, every part of which, from its bark to its fruit, is used in many different fields, arouses curiosity in everyone who hears its name. So, what do you know about this tree?
Buckthorn is one of the valuable tree species that has been cultivated for many years in Anatolia and various parts of the world. The most important feature that makes this tree valuable is that its fruits and bark are used as raw materials in many different sectors. Buckthorn bark can be consumed orally, provided it undergoes certain processing. However, because it requires specific climatic conditions to grow, this tree cannot be found everywhere. Therefore, like many people, you may not have encountered buckthorn yet, or you may not have even heard of it before. So, with this article, you should discover buckthorn right away!
1. WHAT IS BUCKTHORN?
If you have previously researched buckthorn, you may have encountered the incorrect term "buckthorn herb." However, buckthorn is actually a thornless tree species from the Rhamnaceae family, with the Latin name *Rhamnus frangula*. These trees, which range in height from four to six meters, actually resemble shrubs more due to their short stature. It is also known that different varieties of this tree have been developed to be grown as ornamental plants in gardens.
A deciduous tree, buckthorn begins to flower in May-June and reaches its most mature state in October-November. During these periods, the tree bears purplish-black, plum-like fruits. Buckthorn is one of the trees highly favored by bees, and it also serves as a protective shelter for butterflies during their cocooning stage. Moreover, this tree is a fantastic savior for the recovery of areas devastated after forest fires!
2. WHERE DOES BUCKTHORN GROW?
Buckthorn is a slow-growing tree by nature, and for this reason, it is specifically kept under observation by experts. However, it is also known to be an easily cultivated tree species. Buckthorn, which does not like drought and wind, can nevertheless withstand cold weather down to -15°C. For this reason, buckthorn cultivation can be carried out in many different regions.
Buckthorn can grow all over Europe. This tree species can also easily adapt to the prevailing climatic conditions in Western Asia, North Africa, and North America. In Turkey, buckthorn is cultivated in Central and Northern Anatolia, primarily in mountainous regions. It is especially widespread in Artvin, Rize, and Trabzon.
3. WHAT IS BUCKTHORN USED FOR?
Buckthorn leaves are not used in any field. However, the fruit of the tree is actively used in the production of dyes today. The most beneficial part of the buckthorn tree is its bark. Flammable materials such as charcoal and gunpowder can be produced from this bark. In addition, the bark can be processed into a food product after undergoing certain procedures. Buckthorn bark is primarily known for its effect on the digestive system. However, in Anatolia, people also use it externally to apply on wounds or boils.
4. HOW IS BUCKTHORN CONSUMED?
Buckthorn bark can be poisonous when fresh due to its anthra-glycosides content. Therefore, fresh and unprocessed bark should never be consumed. Producers, well aware of this, put buckthorn bark through several important processes to make it suitable for consumption:
Powdered buckthorn bark is among the important raw materials used in pharmacology for drug production. In addition, the bark can also be consumed as herbal tea. However, for this, experts recommend soaking the bark in water for six hours first. The preparation of buckthorn tea is quite easy. For one cup of tea, only one teaspoon of buckthorn bark is sufficient. The brewed tea is ready for consumption after being strained.
5. HOW MUCH BUCKTHORN SHOULD BE CONSUMED?
Given the strong laxative effect of buckthorn bark, it is extremely important to avoid excessive consumption. Experts do not recommend consuming more than three cups of buckthorn tea per day. Of course, it's important to remember that everyone's physiology is different and it's beneficial to consult a doctor before use!
6. BUCKTHORN BARK IS NOW PART OF THE APITERA SERIES!
Balparmak's Apitera series, developed using valuable bee products and herbal foods, now features a brand new targeted product: Apitera Dox! Artichoke extract, cinnamon, buckthorn bark extract, goldenrod extract, and parsley seeds come together in Apitera Dox. Moreover, this formula is supported by honey and propolis, just like all other products in the Apitera series. Haven't you added Apitera Dox to your daily routine yet?
