Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rosaceae
• Common Names: Rowan, Mountain Ash
• Parts Used: Berries, Bark, Leaves

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Description

Sorbus aucuparia, commonly known as Rowan or Mountain Ash, is a deciduous tree native to Europe and Asia. It has long been valued for its medicinal berries, which are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Rowan has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for respiratory support, digestive health, and immune enhancement.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European folk medicine for colds, flu, and sore throats.
• Traditionally employed for digestive complaints, including diarrhea and indigestion.
• Historically valued for its astringent and diuretic properties.
• Used as a tonic to strengthen the immune system.

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Constituents

• Vitamin C
• Flavonoids
• Sorbic acid
• Tannins
• Organic acids

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Actions

• Astringent
• Antioxidant
• Immune-stimulating
• Diuretic
• Mild laxative

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Medicinal Uses

1. Immune Support:
Rowan berries are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, helping to support immune function and combat colds and flu.

2. Digestive Health:
Traditionally used for diarrhea and indigestion due to its astringent properties.

3. Respiratory Support:
Used to soothe sore throats and respiratory inflammation.

4. Urinary Health:
Acts as a mild diuretic, supporting kidney and bladder health.

5. Antioxidant Benefits:
Helps protect cells from oxidative stress and supports overall health.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Berries or Bark):

• 1-2 tsp of dried berries or bark per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Syrup:

• Rowan berry syrup can be made with honey or sugar and taken by the teaspoon for sore throats and immunity support.

Culinary Use:

• Traditionally used in jams, jellies, and fermented drinks.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Unripe Berries: Can be toxic due to parasorbic acid; always use fully ripe or cooked berries.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use in moderation and consult a healthcare provider.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: May cause mild digestive upset in sensitive individuals.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports immunity and digestion.
• Ayurveda: Balances Kapha and Pitta, but may increase Vata in excess.
• Traditional European Medicine: Used to ward off illness and strengthen resilience.

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Combinations

• For Immune Support: Combine with elderberry and echinacea.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with ginger and fennel.
• For Respiratory Relief: Combine with thyme and licorice root.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Berries are collected when fully ripe in autumn; bark is collected in spring.
• Drying: Air dry berries or bark in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried berries, bark, or tinctures in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Sorbus aucuparia’s high vitamin C content, antioxidant properties, and traditional immune-boosting benefits.

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Rowan remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for immune health, digestion, and respiratory support.