Cramp Bark: Materia Medica
Société Apothecary
Cramp Bark: Materia Medica Cramp Bark is a soothing and reliable herb for easing spasms, especially in smooth muscle tissue. Traditionally used by Native American and European herbalists, it shines in formulas for menstrual pain, muscle tension, and nervous system overstimulation. “Cramp Bark loosens the grip of pain—easing tightness, calming nerves, and restoring flow.” MATERIA MEDICA Latin Binomial: Viburnum opulus Common Name(s): Cramp Bark, Guelder Rose, Highbush Cranberry (not a true cranberry) TCM Name: Not traditionally used Ayurvedic Name: No direct analog, but similar to Ashoka in menstrual use Family: Adoxaceae (formerly Caprifoliaceae) Physical Description of the Plant: A deciduous shrub with lobed, maple-like leaves, clusters of white flowers, and bright red berries. Bark is grayish-brown and relatively smooth on younger stems. Habitat: Native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. Naturalized in North America and prefers moist, wooded habitats and streambanks. Harvest and Collection: The bark is harvested in early spring or fall from young branches. It should be dried thoroughly and stored in airtight containers. Parts of the Plant Used: Bark (dried); not to be confused with berries, which are mildly toxic raw Qualities: Bitter, slightly astringent Energetics: Cooling, drying, relaxing Chemical Constituents: Coumarins (scopoletin) Salicylates Valerenic acid (trace) Flavonoids Tannins Volatile oils Actions: Antispasmodic Nervine (mild) Uterine relaxant Analgesic (mild) Astringent Muscle relaxant Indications: Menstrual cramps and uterine spasm PMS-related tension and low back pain Smooth muscle spasm (intestinal, bronchial, gallbladder) Muscle tension and general body aches Threatened miscarriage (historically, under supervision) Stress-related tension and neuralgia Diagnostic Picture: Cramp Bark suits individuals with tension held in the body—especially when nerves and emotions heighten physical pain. Excellent for uterine and pelvic tension, anxiety-induced spasms, or a “tight and trembling” state. Contraindications/Cautions: Avoid in early pregnancy unless under qualified supervision (traditionally used later in pregnancy for spasm prevention) May interact with blood-thinners (due to coumarin content) Not to be used as a primary abortifacient—traditionally used to prevent miscarriage Drug Interactions: Use caution with anticoagulant medications (theoretical due to coumarins and salicylates) Dosage: Tincture: 2–5 mL, up to 3x daily (during acute cramping or tension) Decoction: 1 tsp dried bark per cup; simmer 15–20 min; take 1/2–1 cup up to 3x/day Capsules: 300–500 mg extract, 1–2x/day (less common than tincture) Combinations: With Black Cohosh or Motherwort for menstrual and perimenopausal pain With Valerian or Skullcap for nervous tension and muscle cramping With Ginger or Cinnamon