Chionanthus virginicus (Fringe Tree)

Question 1

How do you recognise Fringe Tree?

Answer 1

A shrub or small tree native to the southern states of the USA. A popular garden plant because of its attractive flowers. The fruit is edible & can be pickled.
Used by Choctaw people as a wash for wounds. Modern uses derived from Eclectic physicians.

Question 2

What are Fringe Tree’s main constituents?

Answer 2

Constituents:
* Secoiridoids – oleuropein, ligustroside, angustifolioside.
* Lignans

Question 3

What family is Fringe Tree in?

Answer 3

Family: Oleaceae

Question 4

What is Fringe Tree good for?

Answer 4

“Summary:

Actions:
* Anti-inflammatory specifically for gall bladder.
* Choleretic, cholagogue (& Laxative because of this).
* Anti-infective.
* Bitter.
* Astringent.

Applications:
* Gallstones.
* Cholecystitis
* Acute gastrointestinal infections.
* Possibly improves actions of spleen and of
* pancreas.
* In past used for infections including typhoid and malaria.
* Historically used to dress wounds.
* For inflammation of eyes, mouth and gums (Chevalier).”

Question 5

What is Fringe Tree’s Latin name?

Answer 5

Chionanthus virginicus

Question 6

What parts of Fringe Tree do you use?

Answer 6

Parts used: traditionally the root bark, also stem bark

Question 7

What safety issues might Fringe Tree have?

Answer 7

Safe plant. 20 – 30 ml/week of 1:3 tincture

Question 8

What useful research does Fringe Tree have?

Answer 8

External links:

Fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus L.) stem bark offers a sustainable alternative to root bark

From King’s American Dispensatory (1898)

Look at Bone & Mills Principles of Phytotherapy pages 210 & 211 re choleretics & cholagogues.