Astringent, bitter, emetic, haemostatic
Fresh alder bark will cause vomiting, so use dried bark except
for emetic purposes.
A decoction of the bark makes a good gargle for sore throat and
pharyngitis. The powdered bark and the leaves have been used as
an internal astringent and tonic, and the bark also as an internal
and external haemostatic against hemorrhage. Boiling the inner bark
in vinegar produces a useful external wash for lice and for skin
problems such as scabies and scabs. It can be used to clean your
teeth.
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