European Buckthorn

Are there any interactions with medications?

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Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Interaction Rating: Major Do not take this combination.

European buckthorn is high in fiber. Fiber can decrease the absorption and decrease the effectiveness of digoxin (Lanoxin). As a general rule, any medications taken by mouth should be taken one hour before or four hours after European buckthorn to prevent this interaction.

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Medications taken by mouth (Oral drugs)
Interaction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
Talk with your health provider.

European buckthorn is a laxative. Laxatives can decrease how much medicine your body absorbs. Decreasing how much medicine your body absorbs can decrease the effectiveness of your medication.

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Warfarin (Coumadin)
Interaction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
Talk with your health provider.

European buckthorn can work as a laxative. In some people European buckthorn can cause diarrhea. Diarrhea can increase the effects of warfarin and increase the risk of bleeding. If you take warfarin do not to take excessive amounts of European buckthorn.

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Water pills (Diuretic drugs)
Interaction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.
Talk with your health provider.

European buckthorn is a laxative. Some laxatives can decrease potassium in the body. "Water pills" can also decrease potassium in the body. Taking European buckthorn along with "water pills" might decrease potassium in the body too much.

Some "water pills" that can decrease potassium include chlorothiazide (Diuril), chlorthalidone (Thalitone), furosemide (Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ, HydroDiuril, Microzide), and others.

Dosing considerations for European Buckthorn.

The following doses have been studied in scientific research:

BY MOUTH:

• As a laxative for constipation: one cup of the tea is commonly taken in the evening and, if needed, in the morning and afternoon. The tea is prepared by steeping 2-4 grams of the European buckthorn fruit in 150 mL boiling water for 10-15 minutes and then straining. Use the smallest amount needed to create a soft stool, and stop using European buckthorn if diarrhea or watery stools occur. Don't use European buckthorn for more than 8 to 10 days. Resort to using European buckthorn only after changing your diet or taking a bulk-forming laxative fails to relieve constipation.