buckthorn
/ˈbʌkθɔːn
/noun
A shrub or small tree which typically bears thorns and black berries. Some kinds yield dyes and others have been used medicinally.
- Genus Rhamnus, family Rhamnaceae: several species, including the common buckthorn (R. cathartica), with berries formerly used as a cathartic. See also alder buckthorn.
- It requires two species of host plant to complete its life cycle: common buckthorn and soybean.
- These herbal teas typically include senna, aloe, buckthorn and other plant-derived laxatives.
Origin
Late 16th century: from buck1 in the sense 'deer' + thorn, translating modern Latin spina cervina.