Ninebark

The Ninebark, botanically Physocarpus opulifolius, is a striking shrub from the rose family (Rosaceae). Originally native to North America, it is today also widespread in Europe and is valued above all as an ornamental woody plant in gardens and parks. The plant owes its name to the conspicuous bark, which peels off in narrow, paper-like strips, which is reminiscent of the plumage of a pheasant. The shrub can grow up to three meters high and bears dense, spherical inflorescences of small white to pink flowers from May to June. In autumn the leaves glow in intense red and orange tones, which additionally increases their popularity as an ornamental plant. Besides its aesthetic effect, the Ninebark also has a certain importance in traditional herbal medicine. In science, unfortunately, few findings on the effect of the plant are known so far.

What benefits does the Ninebark offer for health?

Traditionally and in initial scientific investigations, various properties are attributed to the plant. Since the scientific investigations into the health effect of the plant have so far been extremely limited, it is difficult to be able to make well-founded statements about the effect. Below are initial results of studies as well as traditional applications. Both are to be viewed critically:

  • Antimicrobial: Initial investigations indicate a slight inhibiting effect against bacteria and fungi (1).
  • Astringent: Extracts from leaves and bark were employed in folk medicine for external application in the case of skin problems.
  • Calming: In some regions of North America, the plant was traditionally employed for support in the case of mild complaints of the nervous system.
  • Infections: A tea from the inner areas of the bark was employed in traditional medicine for the treatment of gonorrhea and tuberculosis.

How does the Ninebark act in the body?

According to scientific work, the effect appears to be attributable mainly to flavonoids, tannins and phenols. That would also support the traditional applications. Here too, however, more studies are required in order to be able to make conclusive statements about the effect.

Are there any risks or side effects?

  • Limited data situation: Scientific investigations into internal applications are still very rare.
  • Do not take in large amounts: Like many rose plants, the plant contains tannins, which in the case of overdose can cause stomach irritation.
  • External application is considered safe: Traditionally the plant was applied above all externally, but the application should take place exclusively under medical supervision.

Conclusion

The Ninebark (Physocarpus opulifolius) is known above all as an ornamental shrub with conspicuous bark, flowers and autumn coloring. Beyond that, it has a certain importance in folk medicine, where it was used for various purposes. Research into the plant is still at the beginning, which is why it is not possible to make well-founded statements about the effect. More research is necessary here in the future in order to understand the effects of the plant.

Sources:

  1. Yavorska, H., Vorobets, N., & Moroz, O. (2024). Assessment of Physocarpus opulifolius (L.) Maxim. and Stachys palustris L. extracts influence against Candida parapsilosis. Visnyk of Lviv University. Biological Series, 92, 99–110. https://doi.org/10.30970/vlubs.2024.92.08