• Buckthorn bark is most commonly used for the colon and digestive tract.rainy garden image by sumos from Fotolia.com
  
  Buckthorn is also known as buckthorn bark, glossy buckthorn, dog wood and arrow wood. It is the dried bark from the trunk or branches of a plant called Rhamnus frangula. Originally from Europe, buckthorn is now grown in North America and is most commonly used to aid the colon and digestive tract.
  
  

Laxative and Constipation Cure

• Buckthorn contains 1,8-dihydroxy-anthracene compounds. It soothes the nerves in the intestinal tract that can contract and prevent bowel movements. Taking buckthorn can help with constipation and also helps with anal fissures and hemorrhoids because it softens stools, making it easier to go to the bathroom.
  
  

Digestive System

• Buckthorn is good for the digestive system. People who suffer from digestive problems often gain weight or retain water. Buckthorn can rid the body of toxins and waste because if its diuretic properties and it can help to reduce bloating.
  
  

Colon Cleansing

• Buckthorn increases the motility of the colon and is even sometime used to cleanse the colon when patients are preparing for gastrointestinal surgery. Anthraquinone compounds in buckthorn stimulate movement in the colon, which pushes stools though the intestine. Frequent colon contractions keep bowel movements regular.