Botanical Name: Viburnum Opulus
Country of Origin: Croatia
Description: The Viburnum Opulus, commonly known as the guelder rose, is a cherished cultivar found in gardens across Europe and North America. Originating from Europe, this deciduous shrub boasts clusters of white flowers resembling snowballs and vibrant red berries. Embedded in Slavic folklore, this plant's bark has been a cornerstone of traditional European herbalism, revered for its time-tested beneficial properties. The powdered form of cramp bark finds its application in various herbal formulations, tinctures, and encapsulation. Standing tall at a potential height of 15 feet (5 meters) and spreading up to 15 feet wide, cramp bark is a substantial deciduous shrub. It thrives in the damp lowland forests of England and Scotland, and has acclimated to similar environments in the northern United States and southern Canada. The bark is harvested prior to the seasonal transformations, either before the leaves transition in the autumn or before the buds unfurl in the spring. As a member of the honeysuckle family, cramp bark produces large white flowers, some reaching up to 5 inches (12 centimeters) in diameter, which yield striking red berries come fall. These berries can be consumed akin to cranberries, although it is advisable to exercise moderation. Throughout history, once dried, these berries have been utilized in the creation of ink.
Storage: Store in a cool, dry, dark place in a well-sealed container.
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