Wild Cherry Bark & Coughing
Coughing is probably one of the hardest things the body can do, expelling whatever it is that needs to go. Wild Cherry bark, commonly known as Chokecherry, is known for its ability to calm the respiratory system nerves and diminish cough and asthma.
This amazing plant is common throughout the USA but not so much here in the low desert of Arizona. Early colonist, who learned from our Native American Indians, both used wild cherry bark for treating additional issues such as diarrhea and conditions of the lungs.
While Chokecherry is mild and soothing, it is still slightly astringent to the mucous membranes (lungs). This tasty goodness is specific to that dry-irritated cough that doesn’t want to seem to go away. It works best in bronchial conditions associated with rapid pulse, quickened breathing, and fever.
Additional benefits of Wild Cherry Bark include its ability to calm the respiratory nerves, allay the cough, relive asthma tightness in the chest, prevent and/or clear up bronchitis, and tackle the coughing effects of Influenza.
And it doesn’t stop there! Wild Cherry Bark makes for a wonderful expectorant, which is why I have it as a primary in our DIY Wild Cherry Bark cough syrup. It is powerful for all CATRRAHAL conditions and bronchial disorders that have what we call “hardened mucus” build up. One of its amazing strengths is its ability to loosen up all that nasty phlegm that seems forever stuck in the throat and chest.
For those who have had the misfortune of experiencing Pleurisy, myself included, Wild Cherry bark is a wonderful herb to have on hand when you’re on the flip side recovering from Pleurisy or pneumonia
As with most of our wonderful herbs and spices, Wild Cherry bark is also used for a whole host of other things:
- Expel worms (lovely)
- Ulcers and related GI issues
- Gastritis
- Abscesses (when used as a poultice)
- TB – but talk to your doctor first
Head up: Heat breaks down wild cherry back quickly so when making your syrups be sure to either make a cold infusion or if using a blend, very light heat!
CAUTION: Pregnancy, Lactation - Use Elecampane instead
*For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.