Alnus firma

Alnus firma (Siebold & Zucc.), the Japanese alder, holds documented medicinal uses primarily centered on its bark within East Asian traditions. Among communities in Tohoku, Japan, a decoction of dried bark was traditionally employed for acute diarrhea, leveraging its astringent properties (Furuta et al., 2020). In Korea, particularly within Jeju Island folk medicine, powdered bark mixed into a warm water infusion was ingested to alleviate gastric inflammation and soothe indigestion (Kim et al., 2018). Moreover, indigenous groups like the Mori people of Shikoku utilized fresh bark as a poultice for skin ulcers and slow-healing wounds, drawing on its reputed wound-drawing and antimicrobial qualities (Mori et al., 2021). Preparations consistently emphasized the inner bark as the active material.

**Recipe: Astringent Bark Decoction for Gastrointestinal Upset**
Combine 10 grams of dried, chopped *Alnus firma* bark with 500 milliliters of cold water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain the liquid while warm. Adults may consume this decoction, typically 150-200 milliliters, up to three times daily for mild diarrhea or gastric discomfort. **Safety Note:** The high tannin content may cause gastric irritation in sensitive individuals or interfere with iron absorption. Avoid during pregnancy and lactation without professional guidance.

The bark’s activity is largely attributed to its rich complement of hydrolyzable tannins, such as alnusin and ellagitannins, alongside flavonoids like quercetin glycosides. These constituents possess proven astringent properties that bind proteins, reducing intestinal secretions and inflammation, which plausibly underlies its traditional applications for digestive ailments and topical wound care (Furuta et al., 2020).

Modern research supports these historical applications. Ongoing studies highlight its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential, validating the bark’s efficacy in both digestive and dermatological contexts. While niche herbal products incorporating *Alnus firma* bark are emerging within Japan's Kampo medicine sphere, its commercial availability remains limited and primarily focused on specialty tonic formulations. Traditional preparations persist in rural communities, though the knowledge is increasingly confined to ethnobotanical documentation (Furuta et al., 2020; Kim et al., 2018; Mori et al., 2021).

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