Ancient Herbarium — Detailed Record

Cornus sericea

Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does 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: Traditional use with limited scientific documentation: use with caution and do not substitute for medical advice. Contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to insufficient safety data. Do not administer to young children without advice from a qualified professional. Avoid prolonged or high-dose use, as the bitterness of the bark may irritate the digestive mucous membranes.

Decoction — Inner bark (scraped from young stems)

Bark decoction

The freshly scraped inner bark is gently boiled in water for about fifteen minutes, then filtered. This bitter preparation was traditionally drunk in small quantities; professional advice is recommended before any use. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Poultice — Leaves and bark

Soothing poultice

Fresh leaves or bark softened by moist heat are crushed and then applied directly to the skin. They are held in place with a clean cloth for the required time. Dosage should be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

Red-osier dogwood grows wild in North America, along the edges of wetlands and waterways; in France, it is mainly found cultivated in ornamental hedges or available from specialized nurseries.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

The bark is traditionally harvested in spring or autumn from young branches, when sap circulation is favorable.

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