Burning Bush Drug Interactions, Uses, Safety & More

Burning Bush usually refers to Euonymus atropurpureus, a shrub or small tree also known as wahoo or eastern wahoo. It is native to North America and grows in woodlands and along streams across the eastern and central United States and Canada. In autumn its leaves turn bright red and it produces colorful pink-and-orange fruits, which is one reason for the "burning bush" name.

The name "burning bush" is also used for other unrelated plants, such as Euonymus alatus (a common landscaping shrub) and the biblical "burning bush." This monograph focuses on Euonymus atropurpureus, the plant traditionally used in herbal medicine.

Historically, Native American and early American herbalists used the bark as a laxative and as a so-called liver or gallbladder "tonic." Today it is uncommon and is not a mainstream supplement.

People have traditionally used Burning Bush bark for constipation, liver and gallbladder complaints, fluid retention (as a mild diuretic), and various skin problems. It was also part of old "blood purifying" or "alterative" remedies.

It is important to be honest: there is very little modern scientific research on Burning Bush in humans. Most of what is known comes from historical herbal writings, not well-designed clinical trials. There is not enough reliable evidence to say it works for any health condition.

Because the plant contains compounds that may affect the heart and digestive system, and because better-studied and safer options exist for problems like constipation, most experts do not recommend it for self-care.

Burning Bush bark contains several plant compounds, including cardiac glycoside-like substances (related to those found in plants that affect the heart) and bitter constituents. These compounds are thought to be responsible for both its traditional laxative effect and its potential toxicity.

The proposed laxative action may come from irritation of the gut lining, similar to other stimulant laxatives. Claims about "liver" or "tonic" effects are based on traditional use rather than proven biology.

It is worth stressing that these ideas come mostly from historical use and laboratory observations, not from solid human studies. The exact way it acts in the body is not well understood.

Burning Bush should be treated with real caution. The plant contains compounds that can be toxic, especially in larger amounts. Eating the fruits or large quantities of bark has been linked to vomiting, diarrhea, and possible heart effects.

People with heart conditions, kidney problems, digestive disorders, or who are taking heart or blood pressure medicines should avoid it. Children and older adults are more vulnerable to side effects and should not use it.

Pregnancy: Avoid. It was historically used to bring on menstruation and may affect the uterus, which is dangerous in pregnancy. Breastfeeding: Avoid, because there is no safety information. Always talk with a pharmacist or doctor before using any product containing Burning Bush.

Reported and expected side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach cramping, and diarrhea, especially at higher doses because of its laxative and irritant action.

More serious effects are possible because of the heart-active compounds in the plant. These may include irregular heartbeat or other heart rhythm problems, particularly with overuse or accidental poisoning from the fruit. Such reactions can be dangerous.

If you take Burning Bush and develop a fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat, severe vomiting, weakness, or confusion, stop using it and seek medical care right away.

There is no established, standardized safe dose for Burning Bush. It is not a well-studied modern supplement, and the strength of bark products can vary widely.

Because of the risk of toxicity, we do not provide specific amounts. If you are considering a product that contains Burning Bush, follow the product label exactly and, more importantly, check with a pharmacist or doctor first. For common problems like constipation, there are safer and better-studied options available.