Lisa Ray, Herbalist
Posted on November 16, 2019 by lisaray
Wild cherry bark (Prunus serotina) is a medicinal herb derived from the black cherry tree that has been used for hundreds of years due to its antiviral, antibacterial, and anticancer properties. It is rich in minerals such as zinc, iron, calcium, and magnesium and phytochemicals such as quercetin and kaempferol. Wild cherry bark also contains vasorelaxant, expectorant, and decongestant properties and can significantly help to remove mucus from the lungs and increase lymphatic system function.
This is why wild cherry bark is a common ingredient found in cough syrups and is an effective remedy for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, laryngitis, asthma, pertussis, colds, flu, and chronic lung congestion. Wild cherry bark is also an excellent digestive remedy and is known to help soothe digestive ailments such as gastritis, diarrhea, colitis, flatulence, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome.
Wild cherry bark is also often used as a mild sedative to relax muscle spasms, reduce hypertension, ease cramping, and provide for a more restful night’s sleep. Wild cherry has been shown to help slow down cancer cell growth through its ability to help “switch off” cancer cells ability to duplicate and grow particularly in the colon area.
Topically, wild cherry bark is beneficial as an eyewash for inflamed, puffy eyes and or as a cream to help soothe skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, and rashes. Wild cherry bark tea can be made by simmering 2 teaspoons of dried bark in 2 cups of water for at least 30 minutes. Allow to cool, strain and sweeten with raw honey if desired. Wild cherry bark can be found in extract, syrup, tincture, tea, capsule, or cream form online or at your local health food store.
Wild Cherry Bark Cough Syrup
(Adapted from Rosemary Gladstar)
Ingredients:
You may omit or add anything you wish.
Category: Herbal, HerbsTags: cough syrup, wild cherry bark
These products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This information is for educational use only. Please research all herbs herbal products thoroughly before use. Everyone, especially pregnant and lactating women should check with their physician before using any herbal products. Sage Hill Botanicals Herb Company and Lisa’s Herb Remedies are not responsible for any adverse reactions.