Health Guide

Viburnum lantana

Viburnum lantana, commonly known as the Wayfaring Tree, is a plant belonging to the Adoxaceae family. While many of its cousins produce edible berries (like the cranberry bush), the berries of the Wayfaring Tree are **not edible** and can be toxic if consumed raw. Historically, the bark and leaves of this plant have been used in traditional European folk medicine to treat inflammation, muscle spasms, and fever. Today, it is primarily utilized in the dietary supplement industry as a potent extract for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It matters because it provides a natural source of phytochemicals like tannins and flavonoids, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Safety Profile: Raw vs. Extract

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Safety Level (Scale 1-100)

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Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Reduces Inflammation: Helps lower swelling and inflammatory responses in the body.
Combats Oxidative Stress: High antioxidant content protects cells from damage.
Relieves Spasms: Traditionally used to soothe muscle cramps and digestive spasms.
Supports Immunity: Contains compounds that may help fend off bacteria and viruses.

Deep Dive

The primary reason to consider Viburnum lantana as a supplement is its rich profile of bioactive compounds. The bark and fruit contain tannins, flavonoids, and saponins. These compounds work synergistically to neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that cause cellular aging and disease. Research suggests that extracts from the Viburnum genus exhibit significant analgesic (pain-relieving) and antispasmodic effects, making it a natural choice for those dealing with joint discomfort or digestive irregularity. Unlike synthetic drugs, it offers these benefits with a gentler mechanism of action.

Natural Food Sources

It is important to distinguish Viburnum lantana from other edible berries. The berries of the Wayfaring Tree are toxic when raw and should not be eaten directly. However, when processed correctly or used as a concentrated extract, it provides therapeutic benefits.

Food Source	Part Used	Bioavailability
Viburnum lantana (Wayfaring Tree)	Bark/Leaves	High (Extract)
Viburnum lantana (Wayfaring Tree)	Berries	Low (Toxic raw)
Viburnum opulus (Cramp Bark)	Bark	High

Supplementation

Because the raw berries are unsafe to eat, this ingredient is almost exclusively taken as a standardized extract or capsule.

Dosage: There is no strict RDA (Recommended Daily Allowance). Standardized extracts usually recommend 300–500mg daily.
Who should take it: Individuals looking for natural anti-inflammatory support or relief from muscle spasms.

Top Food Sources

Viburnum Bark (Extract)

Best source for therapeutic benefits.

Viburnum Berries

Toxic raw; not recommended for consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. Unlike other Viburnum species, the Wayfaring Tree berries are bitter and toxic when raw. They can cause severe digestive upset.

They are close relatives (both in the Viburnum genus) and share similar chemical profiles, but Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) is the species most commonly used specifically for menstrual cramps.

For inflammation or pain relief, consistent use for 2–4 weeks is usually recommended to notice significant changes.

Yes, in some people. Viburnum acts as a mild sedative. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.

Safety & Side Effects

CRITICAL: Do not eat the raw berries of Viburnum lantana. They contain cyanogenic glycosides which can release cyanide and cause nausea, vomiting, and digestive distress.

Supplement Safety:

Pregnancy: Avoid use. Viburnum has a history of use to stimulate uterine contractions.
Breastfeeding: Not enough data; avoid.
Surgery: Stop taking at least 2 weeks before surgery due to potential effects on blood pressure and sedation.
Side Effects: When taken as a supplement, side effects are generally mild but may include dizziness or stomach upset.

Scientific References

[1]Gao, H., et al. (2019). 'Chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of Viburnum genus.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.
[2]Li, Y., et al. (2015). 'Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Viburnum extracts.' *Phytotherapy Research*.
[3]World Health Organization. (2007). 'Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants: Viburnum opulus (Cramp Bark).'