Fringe Tree Bark
Also known as- Chionanthus virginica, old man's beard, poison ash, and snowdrop tree.
Introduction
Fringe tree is small tree found in the eastern United States from Tennessee to Pennsylvania, bearing white flowers with fringe-like petals in June, giving the plant its name. It has large leaves like those of the magnolia. The almost-odorless root bark is gathered, washed, and dried for medicinal use.
Constituents
Bitters, saponins, phyllyrin, chionanthin.
Parts Used
Dried bark.
Typical Preparations
Traditionally used as a tea or fluid extract. May be combined with barberry, dioscorea, or euonymous for treating liver diseases.
Summary
Fringe tree bark was used in frontier medicine to treat gallbladder ailments and liver diseases of all kinds. By stimulating release of bile, it acts as a gentle and effective laxative. It stimulates the appetite and increases gastric secretion.
Precautions
Avoid during gallstone attacks, as the herb will increase release of bile and pressure against the stones.