viburnum opulus

*Viburnum opulus*, commonly known as cramp bark, guelder rose, or gilaburu, is a deciduous shrub whose fruits, bark, and seeds are utilized in traditional medicine, homeopathy, and functional foods. It is notably investigated for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea, where it is used as a homeopathic preparation (e.g., Viburnum opulus 3X) to alleviate uterine cramping and pain through its antispasmodic properties. The plant's therapeutic profile is largely attributed to its high concentration of bioactive phenolic compounds, including chlorogenic acid, anthocyanins, and flavonoids, which exert significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic effects. Its pharmacological mechanisms include the inhibition of carbohydrate-digesting enzymes such as alpha-glucosidase and alpha-amylase, as well as the suppression of pro-inflammatory enzymes like lipoxygenase (LOX) and xanthine oxidase (XO). Recent biotechnology research has also explored the isolation of *Viburnum opulus*-derived nanovesicles, which exhibit selective cytotoxic and anti-migratory properties against glioblastoma cells.

Other names

Cramp barkEuropean cranberryGuelder roseGilaburuSnowball treeViburnum opulus 3X