Guelder-rose
Basic Information
Scientific Name: Viburnum opulus
Plant Family: Adoxaceae
Conservation / Invasive Status: Least Concern
Safety Level: Use with Caution
Scientific & Botanical Information
Active Compounds
Viburnum opulus contains scopoletin, valeric acid, tannins, and viburnine. The chemical profile supports antispasmodic and mild sedative properties.
What Science Shows
Viburnum opulus is reasonably documented. Scopoletin has been investigated for antispasmodic effects on smooth muscle. Research suggests valeric acid contributes mild nervous system relaxation.
Growing in New England
Guelder-rose grows well in New England’s cool climate, preferring moist conditions and partial shade. The plant establishes readily from seed or cuttings and produces abundant red berries in autumn.
Safety & Interactions
Guelder-rose is well-tolerated. The bark is preferred for medicinal use and is traditionally dried before preparation. No significant herb-drug interactions are documented.
New England Specific
The plant thrives in New England and is commonly found in home gardens. Wild populations exist near water sources throughout the region.
Traditional Herbalism Information
Parts Used & Their Applications
The bark (collected in spring) is the primary medicinal part. The berries can be used for syrups.
Preparation Methods
Bark is dried and prepared as a decoction (simmered 10–15 minutes) or tincture of fresh bark in alcohol (1:5 ratio).
Traditional Applications
Known as cramp bark, it has been the primary antispasmodic for menstrual cramping in European folk medicine for centuries. Traditional use includes support for uterine health and general muscle tension.
Modern Adaptations
Contemporary herbalists use guelder-rose in formulas for menstrual support, often combining it with other uterine tonics.
New England Specific
Local herbalists recognize guelder-rose as one of the most accessible antispasmodic plants in the region.
Harvest Notes
Bark is most potent when harvested in spring (April–May) when sap is rising. Berries are harvested in autumn (September–October).
Magical Correspondences Information
Magical Correspondences
Planetary: Venus. Elemental: Water. Traditional associations: love, protection, fertility, and emotional balance.
Magical Intentions
Guelder-rose is used for emotional balance and heart-centered intentions. It supports self-love, acceptance, and fertility magic.
Ritual Uses
Flowering branches on altars invoke Venus’s power. The berries are used in autumn harvest altars.
Color Correspondences
Red (passion, vitality), white (purity), and green (heart healing).
Sabbat Associations
Beltane (fertility), Lammas (harvest), and Mabon (balance).
Traditional Lore & Folk Magic
In European tradition, guelder-rose was planted near homes for protection and family harmony.
Combining with Other Plants
Pairs with rose petals for heart-centered magic. Combine with raspberry leaf for women’s work.
1 Grieve, M. (1971). A Modern Herbal. Dover Publications.
2 Blumenthal, M., et al. (2000). Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E. Integrative Medicine Communications.
3 Mills, S. & Bone, K. (2005). The Essential Guide to Herbal Safety. Elsevier.
4 Hoffmann, D. (2003). Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Healing Arts Press.