A large deciduous shrub that usually reaches a height of 15 feet, although it can sometimes grow to 30 feet. Leaves are toothed or lobed, and about 3 to 6 inches long. Flowers are bright yellow, grow in clusters, have four parts, and have ribbon-shaped petals about one inch long. Fruit is a hard woody capsule about ½ an inch long, which explodes and launches two shiny black seeds up to 30 feet when it is mature.

Astringent, haemostatic, sedative and tonic (bark).

Plants For A Future
King's American Dispensatory

Acetaldehyde, afzelin, alpha-ionone, astragalin, beta ionone, choline, gallic acid, gallotannin, isoquercitrin, kaempferol, leucocyanidin, leucodelphinidin, myricetin, quercetin, quercitrin, quinic acid, safrole, saponin, spiraeoside (leaf); ellagitannin, hamamelitannin, phenol (bark).

The herb is widely used as an external application to bruises, sore muscles, varicose veins, haemorrhoids, sore nipples, inflammations etc. The bark is used internally in the treatment of diarrhoea, colitis, dysentery, haemorrhoids, vaginal discharge, excessive menstruation, internal bleeding and prolapsed organs. The decoction of the bark is very useful in hemoptysis, hematemesis, and other hemorrhages, as well as in diarrhoea, dysentery, and excessive mucous discharges, with full, pale, and relaxed tissues. It may also be used as a wash or injection for sore mouth, painful tumors, external inflammations, bowel complaints, prolapsus ani and uteri, leucorrhoea, gleet, and ophthalmia. A homeopathic remedy is made from fresh bark for treating nosebleeds, piles and varicose veins. An infusion of the leaves is used to reduce inflammations, treat piles, internal haemorrhages and eye inflammations.

Excessive use, especially during lactation and pregnancy, should be avoided.

James A Duke and Maryl Fulton. Handbook of Medicinal Herbs - 2nd Edition, P: 790-791, CRC Press July 2002.