Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed RecordFR · EN
Alnus rhombifolia
Alnus rhombifolia
Read before use: the indications below describe traditional and informational uses — they do not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: The high tannin content may cause digestive irritation at high or prolonged doses; cautious and moderate use is recommended. Traditional internal uses of this bark remain poorly documented scientifically: the advice of a healthcare professional or experienced herbalist is recommended before any use. Avoid use in pregnant or breastfeeding women and in young children, due to insufficient data. Do not confuse with other alder species or trees with similar bark; rigorous botanical identification is essential before any harvesting.
Decoction — Bark
Bark decoction for external use
The dried and crushed bark is gently boiled in water for about fifteen minutes, then filtered after cooling. This preparation was traditionally used as a wash or compress on the skin, never drunk in large quantities. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Compress — Bark
Soothing compress
A cloth soaked in warm bark decoction was applied locally to the affected area, renewed once or twice daily. This external use requires clean water and properly identified bark. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to find it
Obtaining the plant
White alder is found in the wild along rivers and wetlands in western North America; in France, it does not grow naturally and is mainly found in certain botanical gardens or specialized collections. Dried bark may occasionally be found at herbalist shops specializing in North American plants.
Harvest season
When to harvest
The bark is traditionally harvested in spring or autumn, periods when sap flows favorably, from young and healthy branches.
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