Red viburnum. Beneficial features

Viburnum viburnum (lat. Viburnum opulus)- a very useful perennial plant belonging to the family Adoxaceae.

Viburnum is widespread throughout Europe, the Caucasus, Asia Minor and Central Asia, Siberia, and North Africa. Viburnum has been known as a medicinal plant since the 14th century. In the post-Soviet space, viburnum was introduced into cultivation in 1974. This medicinal plant can also be found in the form of artificial plantings in the far north of Russia - on the Solovetsky Islands, Arkhangelsk, Kotlas, Ussuriysk, Solikamsk.

Viburnum common (red) They are shrubs (less often trees) from 1.5 to 4 m in height with grayish-brown bark. The leaves are 5–10 cm long, dark green above, grayish-green below, 3–5 lobed, slightly wrinkled. The flowers are white or white-pink, collected in umbrella-like inflorescences, with the outer ones being 4–5 times larger than the inner ones and sterile, and the middle ones small, on very short stalks, bearing fruit. Viburnum fruits are oval or spherical red drupes with a large flattened stone, juicy, with a bitter, astringent taste.
Viburnum blooms in late May - early June, and the fruits ripen in August - September.

Chemical composition

By the way, there is more vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in viburnum berries (up to 70%) than in citrus plants.

So, as we see, all parts of viburnum are rich in useful substances, which is why the people’s proverb was born: “He who is friendly with viburnum does not need a doctor!”

In medicine, viburnum is used for many diseases, for example:

In addition, viburnum has the following properties:

- reduces cholesterol levels in the blood;
- stimulates the removal of sputum and softens;
- increases the tone of the uterine muscles;
- promotes the removal of excess fluid (as a diuretic), and reduces edema of cardiac and renal origin, disorders of water-salt metabolism;
- stimulates the production of bile in diseases: liver, gallbladder and biliary tract, cholangitis;
- gives the body a powerful general strengthening and immunostimulating effect;
— vitaminizes and tones the body.

Back in the 16th century, viburnum was used as a diuretic, wound-healing agent, had an astringent and tonic effect, improving cardiac activity.

According to popular belief, there is not a single disease for which viburnum would not help.

Harm of viburnum

In addition to its beneficial properties, viburnum can also cause harm to the body, for example:
— Due to the increased content of vitamin C, an overdose of viburnum may cause a rash on the body;

— Some varieties of viburnum, the berries of which are not red, can be poisonous. This type of viburnum, black in color, grows in the Caucasus;

- depending on the individual characteristics of the body, the bitterness of viburnum can cause febrile conditions;

Also, red viburnum can be harmful if contraindications to its use are not taken into account.

Contraindications to taking viburnum

Viburnum should not be taken if:

- increased blood clotting;
- tendency to thrombosis, thrombophlebitis;
— ();
- pregnancy;
— ;
— ;
- urolithiasis;
- increased acidity of gastric juice.

Infusion of viburnum bark. Take 10 g of bark and pour 1 glass of boiling water. Let it brew for 90 minutes. Take the infusion 1 tbsp. spoon 4 times a day.

Viburnum infusion. 2 tbsp. Grind tablespoons of viburnum fruits and add hot water. Boil over low heat for 15 minutes, cool, strain and squeeze. Take 1/3 cup 3 times a day before meals.

Good day, friends! Red viburnum grows in my front garden and stably supplies it with raw materials every year not only for medicinal purposes. Raise your hands, who doesn't know the beauty?! I'll be very surprised if there are any. Although…

This is the best antidepressant and immunomodulator. And few people know this anymore. Never mind, now let’s fill the gap, because today red viburnum, its beneficial properties and contraindications, will be the heroes of the story.

Red viburnum - a miracle plant

This unpretentious shrub has more than 150 species and grows almost all over the globe. But today we don’t need all these species; one is enough – the common viburnum. It was she who was considered in Rus' a talisman against envy and bad thoughts, and was a symbol of female fidelity and a happy family.

How does she look? This is a medicinal plant with bright edible fruits and a fairly large seed. Quite a large shrub, its height often reaches 4 meters. The plant is completely unpretentious and can grow even in a swamp. The berries ripen in September, become bright and juicy, but lose their bitterness only after the first frost.

How the ancient Slavs idolized viburnum! And at the same time they did not exaggerate its significance at all. Indeed, in our case, all parts of the plant have medicinal properties: roots, branches, bark, leaves and fruits. Its garden form is often used for landscaping the area, since the view is truly beautiful.

Everything is great on the outside, but what's on the inside?

Chemical composition

The vitamins in viburnum are off the charts. It is rich in vitamin C, and compared to lemon, the latter is far behind. And what else?

• A – is responsible for vision, growth, development and antioxidant properties.
• E – immunomodulator and antioxidant.
• P – is responsible for the condition of blood vessels.
• K - responsible for protein synthesis.

Several acids are present:

• oleic, used even in the manufacture of medicines;
• valerian, has sedative properties;
• formic, thanks to which the berries taste bitter and
• vinegar

It also contains many useful substances and essential oils that have beneficial effects. As well as iron, iodine and copper necessary for the body in large quantities.

Beneficial properties of red viburnum

Composition is composition, but what do we have in the end? Maybe this is a dummy and not worth our attention? I am categorically against this turn of events! This amazing plant is shown to both adults and children; often there are no pharmacy analogues. Here is the main list of ailments for which viburnum will help:

• cardiac and vascular;
• blood diseases (which is important for liver function);
• joint diseases;
• endocrinological diseases;
• nervous disorders, depression;
• gynecological diseases;
• inflammatory diseases;
• diseases of the digestive system and intestines;
• skin diseases;
• colds;
• allergy treatment.

Viburnum for women and men

For women, our today's heroine is simply irreplaceable. It helps to cope with many gynecological diseases. Treats mastitis and mastopathy, regulates the menstrual cycle, smoothes out unpleasant menopausal symptoms, improves skin condition and prolongs youth.

And she didn’t deprive men of attention either. A decoction of the bark will significantly reduce sweating and improve the general condition of the body. The fruits will be useful for increasing potency.

For pregnant women, in most cases, viburnum is contraindicated. The thing is that there is a risk of triggering the mechanism of uterine activity. Only a gynecologist determines the likelihood of a threatened miscarriage, but I know for sure that a decoction of the berries is even used to speed up the birth process.

On the pages of the blog I have already been accused that for ladies in an interesting position, I always set restrictions. Agree. But, the expectant mother needs to carefully plan her diet. She is not only responsible for her own health, but also for the future generation! I do not encourage you to give up such a useful product, but only ask you to treat it carefully.

Important! For oncology, ripe fruits are often used. But! Do not replace folk remedies with modern drug therapy. The use of these methods can only be an additional means of treatment.

For a child's body, viburnum will become an indispensable assistant in the fight against colds, as it improves immunity well. A decoction of the bark can be used for diathesis and allergic reactions. The best effect is achieved in baths if you add this decoction to them. Ingestion of viburnum is allowed for children from 6 months of age in the form of fruit drinks, compotes and jelly. Give other options to older children.

I also suggest you watch a video about this wonderful shrub:

I'm afraid that I will never finish listing the capabilities of our heroine, they are so great. Of course, these are only the main directions, and greatly reduced and generalized. In each specific case, it is necessary to approach it individually, because such a potent plant has contraindications. And also quite serious.

Contraindications

I have already mentioned some of them above, but it wouldn’t hurt to mention them again. So, when should you not use viburnum:

• period of pregnancy and lactation;
• increased blood clotting;
• gout;
• urolithiasis disease;
• peptic ulcers of the stomach and intestines;
• increased acidity;
• hypotension;
• chronic diseases in the acute stage.

If you are planning long-term treatment with viburnum, be sure to consult your doctor. Only in this case the benefit will be maximum.

How to store

I know several storage methods, choose to your taste. And it’s even better to combine them - this way you’ll definitely have berries all year round:

1. Viburnum in tassels is stored well on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator; it can remain there for up to 3 months.
2. Again, the brushes can be filled with regular drinking water and stored in a cool place for 3-4 months.
3. Viburnum, ground with honey or sugar, is stored in a closed container in the refrigerator for up to 6-8 months. I once saved a jar of raw viburnum jelly like this until the new harvest.
4. Frozen, as an independent dish or as preparations with the addition of various components - honey or sugar. Thus, you can definitely save it until the next harvest, but do not forget that the longer viburnum lies frozen, the less beneficial properties remain in it.

Twigs, leaves and flowers are, of course, best stored dried. For options on how to prepare and store healthy berries for the winter, watch the video:

Practical use

Undoubtedly, this unique plant is highly valued in folk medicine and can provide invaluable assistance to the human body. So, here are the basic recipes that will help you solve various problems:

1. Raw viburnum berries. Elementary, knead them (you don’t have to do this), and consume a tablespoon three times a day, preferably 30 minutes before meals.
2. Berry infusion. Pour a couple of tablespoons of berries (dry) with a glass of boiling water. Let it sit for 30 minutes. Drink a third of the serving in the morning, lunch and evening.
3. Flower infusion. Pour a teaspoon of flower branches of a wonderful shrub with a glass of boiling water. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Drink a portion in the morning and evening.
4. Bark decoction. Pour a teaspoon of crushed raw materials into a glass of boiling water. Boil the mixture for 10 minutes and leave to infuse for a couple of hours. Strain and take a tablespoon before meals. For external use, take a larger dose.
5. General strengthening tincture. Fill ½ part of a liter jar with viburnum, add a handful of pine nuts and a pinch of anise seeds. Pour in a couple of tablespoons of sugar syrup. Then you can insist on both vodka and alcohol (it’s better to dilute it). The exposure should be about 20 days. Take no more than one spoon per day. If there is no anise and nuts, it’s okay, you’ll get a regular viburnum tincture. And also healing.

Viburnum for colds

• The infusion of flowers described above is very good for coughs.
• In 100 gr. berries add one lemon, 200 gr. aloe leaves and 4 pcs. walnuts. Crush with a mixer and mix with honey. Take all this in small spoons to relieve cold symptoms and prevent asthma.
• Pour viburnum bark, dried flowers daisies, mint and thyme with a glass of boiling water. Next, take a 5-minute water bath and leave for about an hour. Add 100 gr. viburnum juice and honey. Take the resulting drug before meals.

For heart problems

• Take a liter jar, mix 0.5 liters of viburnum and hawthorn berries, you can lightly let in the juice. Next, add vodka and let it brew for about 20 days. After straining, you need to drink a tablespoon half an hour before meals.
• Add motherwort herb and a little valerian root to the pre-crushed viburnum fruits. Then pour 2 tablespoons of the mixture with boiling water. For hypertension, drink one glass a day. The decoction, in addition to heart problems, also solves the problem of nervous disorder.
• Mix the berries of the main character in equal proportions with sugar; if desired, you can replace them with honey. The mixture lowers blood pressure well and strengthens blood vessels. Can be eaten with spoons or with tea. The main thing is to monitor the quantity!

Important! With low blood pressure, viburnum is used very carefully.

For gastrointestinal diseases

• With reduced acidity and gastritis, viburnum infusion has healing properties. Read above how to prepare it.
• For constipation, it is recommended to eat a small portion of berries on an empty stomach. If desired, you can add honey.
• It is recommended to use viburnum seeds to cleanse the intestines. Fry them briefly and chop them. The resulting mixture can successfully replace coffee. In addition, it normalizes metabolism and removes toxins.

For diabetes

1. Option 1. Mix in proportions:

• 1 part viburnum berries,
• 2 – juniper berries,
• 4 – blueberry leaves,
• 2 – flax seeds.

From the resulting mixture we prepare a decoction in the ratio of a tablespoon per glass of water. Berries, not grass, it’s better to simmer them a little in a water bath. Drink the resulting portion 3 times a day. For diabetics, the use of the medicine is permissible only in its pure form, without sugar.

1. Option 2. Mix the following ingredients in equal proportions:

• viburnum bark,
• dandelion grass,
• blueberry and lingonberry leaves,
• medicinal galega and

We prepare in the same way as the first option. Strained, take 3 times a day before meals.

Viburnum in cosmetology

Health is important for anyone, but a woman also thinks about external beauty. Now we’ll find out how nature can help here. Kalina is capable of:

• restore the structure of the skin, restore its elasticity and firmness;
• cleanse pores;
• smooth out age spots.

In general, no more or less... bring back youth! So, the arsenal

Masks and peeling

Mask for dry skin. Ingredients: a couple of tablespoons of our berries (or juice), a spoonful of honey, 5 drops of glycerin, a spoonful of vegetable oil and flour. Stir, warm up a little and apply a warm mask to your face. Wash off after a quarter of an hour, then use any cream.

Mask for oily skin. Mix a couple of tablespoons of viburnum juice and one beaten egg white, apply the mask to your face (can be done in several layers). Let it sit for about 20 minutes – your skin is oily.

Peeling with viburnum. mix viburnum juice and sour cream in equal proportions, add a spoonful of sugar. Apply to face along massage lines, leave for 5-10 minutes. The product has a whitening effect, cleanses and improves the structure of the epithelium.

I haven’t tried it myself, but based on reviews I know that you can use the juice of this berry instead of an everyday toner and wipe your face with it. I think the product is suitable for ladies with problem skin.

Viburnum in your kitchen

In addition to the above recipes, viburnum is widely used in cooking. How to cook it? This is a separate topic for discussion, but there shouldn’t be any difficulties with it. Make pies and fruit drinks from it, make jam and marmalade. How delicious and healthy is tea with it?! One mind!

Attention! This wonderful shrub has a gastronomic disadvantage: not everyone likes the smell emitted by the berries during heat treatment. But that doesn't bother you, does it?

It’s healthier, of course, not to cook, but simply grind the viburnum with sugar or honey. This way the vitamins are preserved much better. But in any case, viburnum in your kitchen is the key to health and beauty.

I think today I spoke in detail about both the beneficial properties and contraindications of red viburnum. Our ancestors knew what was needed not only for prevention, but also for serious treatment. All that is required is to use traditional folk remedies.

Follow new publications, and to do this, visit the blog more often, subscribe to updates, invite friends on social networks. And I’ll take my leave of this. Good luck to you!

Many people know the healing qualities of wild viburnum berries as an excellent remedy for colds and obsessive coughs. Fewer people know that the use of red viburnum, the beneficial properties and contraindications for the use of which are described in detail in traditional medicine recipes and confirmed by laboratory studies, has a much wider range.

This is a truly unique plant, all parts of which can be used for medical and cosmetic purposes: bark, berries with heart-shaped seeds in them, flowers, leaves, roots and even young shoots.

The beneficial properties of viburnum are not limited solely to the fight against sore throat, bronchitis or ARVI: juices, decoctions, teas, infusions, extracts, and oils based on it can cure or alleviate a wide range of diseases. Preparations containing viburnum have an anti-inflammatory, hemostatic, astringent, diuretic and sedative effect.

Viburnum fruits are distinguished by a high content of vitamins A, C, P and microelements, including phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, manganese and copper. In addition, the pulp and juice of viburnum contain pectins, invert sugar, flavonoids and a complex of organic acids. The bark of the plant is rich in tannins, vitamins C, K and also includes a rich set of organic acids (including formic, acetic, caproic, isovaleric acid, etc.). Viburnum seeds contain ascorbic acid and about 21% oil. Along with other healing properties, such a high concentration of vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, as well as a large number of phytoncides gives viburnum-based preparations a general strengthening effect and is used to increase the immunity of the human body.

Like the vast majority of medicines, viburnum has a number of contraindications for use. Proper use of the medicinal qualities of the plant will allow you to avoid accidental harm to health.

So, what are the benefits and possible harms of viburnum, what diseases should it be used for, and how to properly prepare medicinal formulations.

Treatment of viral infections and upper respiratory tract diseases

An excellent folk remedy, viburnum, whose beneficial properties and contraindications for use deserve detailed study, is especially famous for its effectiveness in the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections and colds.

1. The juice and pulp of the plant’s fruits contain almost 2 times more ascorbic acid than citrus fruits. Such a high content of vitamin C in viburnum makes it indispensable for its use in the prevention and treatment of viral and colds. Traditionally, it is used in the form of tea made from dried or fresh fruits with the addition of sugar or honey.
2. In order to ease the course of bronchitis or pneumonia, to thin the mucus, a mixture is prepared consisting of 1 cup of mashed viburnum berries and 1 cup of honey heated to 40 ° C. Take the medicine 1 tbsp. l. after meal. In this case, the mixture does not need to be swallowed immediately, but kept in the mouth and slowly dissolved. This remedy also helps with bronchial asthma and obsessive cough.

Important: do not overheat the honey; the indicated temperature is optimal. When heated to higher numbers, the enzymes and fructose contained in it are destroyed, and at temperatures above 60 ° C, carcinogens harmful to health begin to form.

Viburnum for the treatment of diseases of the digestive tract and liver

1. Juice and decoction of the fruits are used for diseases of the liver and gall bladder, gastritis and ulcers with low acidity. In this case, the decoction acts as an anti-inflammatory and sedative, and the juice has a stimulating effect on the production of bile and hydrochloric acid.

Important: viburnum-based preparations should not be used in case of high acidity, as they can cause harm and provoke an exacerbation of the disease.

Viburnum for blood vessels and heart

1. The juice of the plant has a pronounced hypotonic effect. Hypertensive patients are advised to take a tablespoon of fresh fruits with honey or sugar before meals.
2. With the help of berries and juice consumed, you can normalize the functioning of the heart and cleanse the blood and vessel walls of fatty plaques. The high content of pectins helps reduce cholesterol, which is why it is used in the treatment of patients with atherosclerosis. The usual consumption rate for the prevention of this disease is ½ cup of fresh fruits during the day.
3. Decoction, tea and juice are used as diuretics for swelling.
4. The benefits of viburnum as a good antispasmodic determine the use of infusions based on it as a means to reduce headaches and relieve spastic pain in gastritis.

Solving dermatological problems

Treatment of diseases of the urinary system

Infusions and juice of berries have anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, which is why they are used in the treatment of cystitis, pyelonephritis and urethritis.

Use of viburnum products as a hemostatic agent

Strengthening the nervous system.

The benefits of viburnum in the treatment of depression, neuroses of various etiologies, stress conditions, as well as its use during the rehabilitation period after psychological trauma are explained by the presence of isovaleric and valeric acid in the berries, the calming effect of which is complemented by the pronounced hypotonic effect of viburnum preparations.

Application in home cosmetology:

Viburnum and skin care products made from it are popular among women who prefer natural cosmetics:

• Fresh juice is used to remove freckles, lighten age spots, whiten skin and treat acne.
• The cleansing, tonic and antioxidant properties of the red viburnum plant are in demand, the beneficial properties of which are used in home cosmetology when preparing face masks.

Healing properties of seeds

Let us separately dwell on the use of the unusually shaped heart-shaped seeds of the plant as a remedy. Usually it is customary to throw them away, but, as already mentioned, the healing qualities of the plant extend to all its parts, including the seeds. The viburnum berry, valuable for health, whose beneficial properties are difficult to over-praise, has equally valuable seeds.

Viburnum seeds contain a high percentage of biologically active substances, so the oil obtained from them is widely used as a component of food additives. In addition, it is included in some medicines and is used in cosmetology.

Natural carotenoids, which viburnum seed oil is rich in, help prevent cancer, and their action as natural antioxidants protects the body from harmful external factors and slows down the aging process. Such qualities of the product have made it a popular ingredient in anti-aging creams and masks.

Regular consumption of viburnum seeds will help get rid of stones and sand in the urinary and gall bladder, kidneys, and bile ducts. In addition, the seeds will cleanse the body of toxins and have a stimulating effect on the intestinal muscles. Normalizing the functioning of the urinary system and gastrointestinal tract will have the best impact on your overall well-being and appearance: headaches will go away or become less frequent, your performance will increase, and your facial skin will look refreshed and rejuvenated. For medicinal purposes, it is enough to eat 10-15 seeds during the day, one at a time.

Red viburnum: contraindications

Having examined in detail the question of how viburnum is useful for the human body, you should carefully study the restrictions on its use so as not to cause harm to health:

• Juices, teas, decoctions and other preparations containing viburnum intended for oral administration are contraindicated for gouty arthritis due to the high content of purines, which cause increased deposition of salts in the joints and periarticular tissues. This ban mainly applies to men, who are more prone to developing diseases of this kind;
• viburnum stimulates the production of bile and hydrochloric acid, therefore medicinal products based on it can cause exacerbation of stomach diseases in people with high acidity;
• viburnum preparations have diuretic properties, therefore they are harmful for those suffering from enuresis;
• the presence of a significant amount of invert sugar in the fruits makes them undesirable for people suffering from diabetes;
• the benefit of using viburnum for hypertensive patients turns out to be harmful if it is consumed by a hypotensive person, in whom a decrease in pressure can cause dizziness and even fainting;
• viburnum acts as a herbal coagulant, therefore treatment with its drugs is not suitable for men and women with high blood clotting rates and a tendency to thrombosis;
• It is not recommended for pregnant women to consume viburnum due to the increased content of phytohormones in plant products, similar to female sex hormones. Their excess in the body can lead to the development of fetal pathology or miscarriage;
• Research data on the benefits and harms of using viburnum in the treatment of young children is quite contradictory, therefore the use of other methods and drugs seems more reasonable.

• increased sweating;
• weakened immunity, frequent colds;
• weakness, fatigue;
• nervous state, depression;
• headaches and migraines;
• alternating diarrhea and constipation;
• I want sweet and sour;
• bad breath;
• frequent feeling of hunger;
• problems with losing weight;
• decreased appetite;
• night grinding of teeth, drooling;
• pain in the abdomen, joints, muscles;
• cough does not go away;
• acne on the skin.

If you have any of the symptoms or are in doubt about the causes of your ailments, you need to cleanse your body as quickly as possible. How to do it .

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Red or common viburnum is a wild plant widely known for its medicinal properties and taste. Berries, leaves and bark of viburnum are used to treat colds, inflammation of the kidneys, urinary tract, skin rashes, bleeding, digestive problems and hundreds of other diseases. In ancient times, viburnum was considered a special shrub - a universal healer that could help with any ailment. Nowadays, viburnum continues to be actively used in official and folk medicine, cooking and cosmetology.

Viburnum - composition and healing properties

Red viburnum is a wild melliferous shrub that grows throughout Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and Europe, excluding the southern regions. Today, about 150 species of shrubs are known, many of which are decorative and do not have healing properties. Wild plants can grow to short trees - up to 4 m or grow in the form of low spreading shrubs up to 2 meters high. The shrub blooms from May to June, and large white flowers, which attract bees and other insects to the viburnum, do not produce berries, but small, bud-like flowers collected in umbrella-shaped inflorescences bear fruit. The berries ripen in August – September, but it is recommended to pick them only after the first frost, since before that they are very bitter, and after frost they become sweeter, while completely retaining their medicinal properties.

Our ancestors have known about the beneficial properties of viburnum since ancient times, and all parts of the plant were used for treatment - berries, leaves and bark. Today, viburnum is grown as an ornamental plant, and thanks to selection, varieties with sweet fruits have appeared, but only wild-growing shrubs with tart, sour berries and a specific, strong odor are truly medicinal.

Composition of viburnum

The beneficial properties of the low shrub are explained by the large amount of beneficial substances contained in all parts of the plant. Thus, viburnum fruits contain:

• pectins - they are called “the nurses of the human body”; they cleanse the blood and cells of toxins, pesticides and radioactive elements. In addition, pectins reduce cholesterol in the blood, improve metabolism and the processes of digestion and assimilation of food in the intestines;
• tannins – prevent the development of inflammatory reactions, destroy pathogenic bacteria and viruses and accelerate the healing of wounds, abrasions and ulcers;
• flavonoids – enhance enzyme activity, reduce the permeability of blood vessels and improve their elasticity and permeability;
• steroid and triterpene saponins – enhance the effect of hormones and enzymes, have anti-inflammatory and adaptogen effects, regulate water-salt and mineral metabolism;
• organic acids - malic, ascorbic, valeric, formic, isovaleric, citric. These acids normalize all types of metabolism, prevent the formation of free radicals, protect the body from the effects of pathogenic bacteria, viruses and fungi;
• lipids – necessary for the formation of proteins and hormones;
• vitamins - viburnum fruits contain 2 times more vitamin C than citrus fruits, they are no less rich in vitamins A, E, K and P, but it is the lack of vitamins that leads to a decrease in immunity, a general weakening of the body, a deterioration in all types of metabolism, disruption functions of all internal organs and other disorders;
• minerals – viburnum fruits accumulate calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, copper, nickel, manganese, phosphorus, iodine, lead, strontium, bromine and other micro- and macroelements.

In addition to berries, viburnum bark, flowers and leaves are used for treatment.. They need to be harvested during the flowering period of viburnum - at the very beginning of spring. Viburnum leaves are used for inflammatory skin diseases, festering wounds and ulcers, furunculosis and acne. Viburnum bark has pronounced hemostatic properties; it is used for bleeding gums, gastric, uterine or pulmonary bleeding. In addition, viburnum bark, due to its high content of tannins, flavonoids, organic acids and other biologically active substances, helps with allergic rashes and skin diseases. It dries the skin, relieves irritation and inflammation.

Medicinal properties of red viburnum

Our ancestors believed that there is no disease for which red viburnum will not be useful, but the plant is most effective in treating the following diseases:

• ARVI, influenza, sore throat, bronchitis - viburnum is very useful for any colds, it has anti-inflammatory and diaphoretic properties, strengthens the immune system and speeds up recovery;
• diseases of the digestive system - viburnum juice and a decoction of them help with gastritis and stomach ulcers with low acidity, inflammatory diseases of the liver, gall bladder and other organs. Viburnum juice stimulates the formation of bile and gastric juice, and a decoction of the berries has a calming and anti-inflammatory effect;
• diseases of the heart and blood vessels - alcohol tincture and decoction of viburnum berries are recommended to be taken for hypertension, angina pectoris, heart pain, atherosclerosis, and so on. Red viburnum has a hypotonic effect, normalizes heart function, lowers cholesterol levels in the blood and strengthens blood vessels;
• pathologies of the nervous system - viburnum juice and fresh berries are very effective for headaches, insomnia, neuroses, hysteria and even convulsions. The high content of vitamins and minerals compensate for their deficiency in the body, and lowering blood pressure and normalizing metabolism help fight diseases of the nervous system;
• dermatological - a decoction of viburnum bark and a decoction of berries reduce inflammation, itching and redness of the skin, they help with eczema, psoriasis, furunculosis, allergic dermatitis and other skin diseases. Tannins and organic acids destroy pathogenic bacteria and accelerate the healing of wounds, abrasions and ulcers;
• inflammatory diseases of the kidneys and urinary tract - viburnum juice and berry tincture are recommended for pyelonephritis, cystitis or urethritis. The anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties of the plant will help cope with infection and inflammation in these organs;
• gynecological diseases - viburnum juice and fresh berries can be used for painful or heavy menstruation, inflammatory diseases of the female genital organs or cervical erosion. Viburnum is also useful as a general strengthening and immunostimulating agent. Regular intake of decoction and juice of the plant will help strengthen blood vessels, reduce cholesterol levels in the blood, and will serve as a preventive measure for cardiovascular, colds and other diseases.

Contraindications

Despite all the beneficial properties of viburnum, decoctions and tinctures from its berries and fruits will not be useful to all patients. The use of viburnum preparations is contraindicated for:

• pregnancy - it is strictly forbidden to be treated with viburnum while carrying a child; the juice and fruits of viburnum contain substances that are analogues of female sex hormones. Their excess in the body of a pregnant woman can provoke termination of pregnancy or the development of various pathologies in the fetus;
• increased acidity of gastric juice - viburnum increases the secretion of bile and hydrochloric acid and can cause exacerbation of hyperacid gastritis and peptic ulcer;
• hypotension – decoctions and infusions of viburnum fruits and bark can lower blood pressure and even cause a hypotensive crisis;
• arthritis and gout - a large number of biologically active substances can cause an exacerbation of the inflammatory process in these diseases;
• with increased blood clotting - viburnum enhances blood clotting ability and can cause the formation of blood clots in blood vessels.

Red viburnum - recipes

1. Viburnum infusion– used for colds, hypoacid gastritis and stomach ulcers, diseases of the cardiovascular system and nervous diseases. Dry viburnum berries are used to prepare the infusion. 2 tablespoons of berries are poured into 1 tablespoon of boiling water, heated in an enamel bowl in a water bath for 10-15 minutes, then left for 30-40 minutes and filtered. Boiled water is added to the infusion, bringing its amount to 200 ml. Take the infusion 1/4 tbsp 3-4 times a day for a long time.

And for the treatment of hypertension and high cholesterol, it is recommended to use an infusion of viburnum with honey. To prepare it, pour 1 tbsp of dried fruit into 1 tbsp of boiling water, leave for 40-60 minutes in a warm place and, after straining, add 2 tsp of honey and take 2 tbsp 4 times a day.

2. Viburnum juice– You should not drink undiluted viburnum juice because its taste is too sour and rich. Diluted juice is used to treat hypertension, allergic reactions, colds, hysteria, neuroses and as a means to stimulate the immune system. To prepare this remedy, fresh berries from 1-2 bunches of viburnum are poured into 1 tbsp of boiling water, left for 5-10 minutes, after which the berries are kneaded, diluted with boiled water to 200 ml and given to the patient 1/2 tbsp 1-2 times a day for 10-20 days.

3. Viburnum bark decoction– one of the most effective remedies for skin diseases and allergic rashes. Prepare such a decoction from 10 grams of bark and 1 tablespoon of boiling water, boil the decoction in a water bath for 30 minutes, then cool, filter and add boiling water, bringing the volume to 200 ml. Take a decoction of the bark, 2 tablespoons 3 times a day, after meals until the rash disappears completely.

4. Alcohol tincture of viburnum bark– it is recommended to use it for heavy menstruation, hemorrhoids, uterine bleeding and other conditions in which blood loss occurs. Prepare a tincture from 2 tablespoons of bark and 1 tablespoon of 40% alcohol. Pour alcohol over the bark and leave to infuse in a dark, cold place for 7-10 days. Take the tincture 15-30 drops 2-3 times a day before meals, for 10-14 days.

5. Decoction of viburnum leaves– an excellent remedy for acne, furunculosis and other skin rashes. To prepare a decoction, pour 2 tablespoons of dry or fresh viburnum leaves into 1 tablespoon of boiling water, bring to a boil over low heat and leave for several hours. Afterwards, the broth is filtered and used to wipe problem areas of the skin or to prepare compresses for purulent wounds.

6. Viburnum berry tea– it is recommended to drink it for diseases of the nervous system, decreased performance and problems with the immune system. This tea is prepared from viburnum berries mashed with sugar; just pour 1 cup of the mixture into 1 cup of boiling water and in 5-10 minutes a tasty and healthy drink is ready.

7. Viburnum tincture with honey– recommended as a prophylactic for strengthening the immune system and for colds. Prepare a tincture from 0.5 kg of fresh seedless berries, which are thoroughly kneaded and poured with 0.2 liters of 40% alcohol and 0.5 kg of natural honey. The tincture is placed in a dark, cool place for 10-14 days and taken 1-2 tbsp 2-3 times a day for a long time.

8. Berries with honey– used in the treatment of colds, hypertension and neuroses. To prepare the medicine, grind fresh viburnum berries, mix with the same amount of honey and leave to infuse for 7-10 days. Store the mixture in the refrigerator; for treatment, 1 tbsp of the mixture is diluted with 1 tbsp of hot boiled water and given to the patient 12-1 tbsp 2-3 times a day until recovery.

Red viburnum is used not only in medicine, but in cosmetology. You can wipe the juice of the berries on oily skin to tighten pores and reduce the number of breakouts. Juice of viburnum berries with honey will help restore elasticity and velvety to the skin and will be an excellent remedy for the prevention of premature wrinkles. To do this, it is enough to make a mask from the mixture daily, before going to bed for 5-7 days, then take a week’s break and repeat the course.

For the Slavic peoples, viburnum is not just a beautiful shrub. Culture and life are closely connected with this plant. Mentions of her are found in beliefs and rituals, and poems are dedicated to her. songs. The viburnum berry symbolizes the purity, love and beauty of a girl. It is an ingredient in many national dishes and is valued in medicine for its beneficial properties.

Viburnum berries

The viburnum bush attracts the eye at any time of the year: strewn with snow-white flowers in the spring, lush greenery in the summer or bright red clusters in the fall. But the plant has earned people's love not only for its beauty, but also due to its healing properties.

Viburnum is used to prepare compresses, ointments, decoctions and tinctures that help cure a variety of diseases:

• pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (gastritis, ulcers, colitis);
• hypertension;
• pathologies of the cardiovascular system;
• tuberculosis;
• liver diseases;
• atherosclerosis;
• colds;
• pathologists of the nervous system;
• inflammation of the skin;
• menopause;
• menstruation disorders;
• pain during menstruation;

It has hemostatic properties, regulates cholesterol and sugar levels. Indispensable for diseases of the upper respiratory tract due to its antispasmodic and disinfecting properties. Reduces body temperature, helps remove excess fluid, thereby eliminating swelling. In diabetes mellitus, it normalizes the general condition of the patient.

Video “Preparing viburnum berries”

In alternative medicine, all parts of the plant are used: bark, seeds, leaves, flowers, berries, seeds. The plant contains a variety of beneficial substances:

• mineral salts;
• glycosides;
• chromium;
• valeric acid;
• manganese;
• pectin;
• phytoncides;
• copper;
• formic acid;
• linoleic acid;
• saccharides;
• phosphorus;
• selenium;
• fatty acid;
• tannins;
• isovaleric acid.

In addition, common viburnum is saturated with vitamins A, E, C, K, P. It is widely used not only for medicinal purposes, but also in cooking (sweets, wines, pies, desserts), cosmetology (masks, tonics, shampoos, lotions) .

Viburnum berries are considered a low-calorie product and are indicated for people watching their figure or suffering from obesity (energy value - 26 kcal).

100 grams contain:

Due to the rich chemical composition of viburnum, the berries are often included in various vitamin preparations.

Secrets of harvesting and storing viburnum

Viburnum berries

You can grow or find a wild bush. Under natural conditions it grows in shady areas, along water bodies. Loves moisture, pine or deciduous forests.

• If you need to prepare young shoots, you should do this in early spring, and April is suitable for bark. At this time, sap flow is just beginning.
• The plant blooms in May-June, so the flowers are collected at the moment of their full opening. The inflorescences are picked whole and dried immediately.
• The berries ripen by September-October, and they should be picked with the stem, maintaining the integrity of the “umbrella”. Fruits collected after the first frost do not lose their benefits, but become less bitter.

Harvesting bark

In order to collect bark from a viburnum bush, it is necessary to cut down the branches obliquely, leaving a trunk of about 10 cm for regrowth. It is important to remember that viburnum grows rather slowly and the next collection of bark from this bush can only be resumed after 10 years. Therefore, if there is no need to cut down the entire bush, only the side branches are cut off without affecting the main trunk.

On the resulting branches and trunks of the viburnum, transverse ring-shaped cuts are made every 10-15 cm. Afterwards, longitudinal cuts are made connecting the ring-shaped cuts to each other. The bark can be easily removed in tubes or layers. To preserve the beneficial properties of viburnum, you should not cut off the bark with a knife, otherwise woody stripes will remain on its inner surface. The resulting bark is spread on paper or cloth in a thin layer (up to 5 cm). It is better to dry in a shaded, well-ventilated place (attic, shed). When it becomes fragile enough, it can be transferred to a fabric bag for storage (no more than 4 years).

Collection and preparation of viburnum berries

Viburnum berries are collected in dry weather. The bunches must be picked carefully, without damaging the fruit, thereby preserving the beneficial substances. During harvesting, the berries are separated from the stalks.

The processing process depends on the final result. Berries can be dried, frozen, canned, or ground into juice. The fruits, like the bark, are dried, which takes about 7-9 days. You can use an electric dryer or oven.

Harvesting viburnum for the winter can be done in the following way. Pour the washed, dried berries into the jar by a third, add granulated sugar to the top and close. Store in the refrigerator or cellar; the berry is ready to eat after 6 months.

Homemade recipes using viburnum

Tasty and healthy viburnum jam

Honey viburnum helps well with colds, the recipe for which is quite simple.. For 100 g of viburnum berries, take 1 tablespoon of honey. You need a cast iron or clay pot, other tall baking dishes will do. Add a layer of viburnum to the bottom, pour honey on top, and continue alternating layers. The container should be no more than 2/3 full. Simmer in the oven at 160ºC for one and a half hours. Such berries help well with swelling of the heart, shortness of breath, liver diseases, and jaundice.

Fresh whole or grated berries will cope with nervous excitement, vascular spasms, hypertension and atherosclerosis. You can rub them through a metal sieve, after washing them and separating them from the stalks. Before drinking, you should additionally strain the mixture through cheesecloth. This juice with honey is used in alternative medicine to fight breast cancer and as a preventative against gastritis.

An infusion of viburnum fruits helps with boils or eczema. For this purpose, pour a tablespoon of fruit with a glass of boiling water, cover and leave for about two hours, filter. This remedy is popularly known as a laxative, diaphoretic, tonic and vitamin. Use 2 large spoons 3 times a day before meals.

If you are worried about hemorrhoids, uterine bleeding or painful and severe menstruation, prepare a tincture with alcohol. To do this, mix a spoonful of bark with 50% alcohol (100 ml) and store it in a cold place for a week. Afterwards, the tincture is filtered and used 15-30 drops on an empty stomach two to three times a day.

Regular consumption of viburnum normalizes the general well-being of people with malignant neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract. But tea made from the flowers of the plant will help in the fight against scrofula. Freshly picked or dry petals are poured with boiling water and left for a quarter of an hour. Drink 1/3 cup of the strained drink 3-4 times a day.

Do not forget the beneficial properties of viburnum leaves. Their infusion is widely used for helminthiasis and for rinsing during sore throat. The juice of viburnum leaves is used both externally, lubricating damaged areas of the skin (scrofula, boils, lichen, rash), and internally. By drinking a quarter glass of it three times a day, you can quickly recover from long-term serious illnesses and strengthen your immune system.

Who Shouldn't Eat Berries

The medicinal properties of viburnum berries are undeniable, however, like any medicinal plant, it must be used wisely. Pregnant women should be especially careful. The fact is that viburnum fruits contain special substances similar to female hormones. Their excess in the mother’s blood can provoke deviations in the baby’s development, and even premature birth.

There are contraindications for people suffering from:

• low blood pressure;
• urolithiasis;
• chronic kidney pathologies;
• leukemia;
• arthritis;
• high blood clotting;
• thrombophlebitis;
• gout.

In case of high acidity of the stomach, accompanied by an ulcer or gastritis, red viburnum, whose properties increase the secretion of gastric juice, is prohibited for consumption. Do not forget about individual intolerance to the plant. The fruits can cause severe allergic reactions due to the high concentration of vitamin C and fever. It is worth noting that black viburnum berries are considered poisonous.

Viburnum is an incredibly tasty, beautiful and healthy berry. In recent years, its properties have been undeservedly forgotten. And it’s completely in vain, because it’s quite difficult to find analogues to such an affordable and useful natural healer.