Cramp bark is a flowering shrub found throughout moist woodlands of North America, although it is also cultivated as a garden ornamental. This cousin to honeysuckle is known by several common names, including Guelder Rose, European Cranberry, Snowball Tree and Water Elder. 

The bark, which is stripped from the tree in fall or early spring, is prepared as tea or tincture.

Tincture the bark and add to lotions, creams or massage oils for direct application to sore muscles. 

Decoct for use as tea, alone or in combination with other herbs.

SAFETY Use with caution if you also take pharmaceutical medications to lower blood pressure.