herb data, Wild Cherry Bark, Prunus serotina, Virginia Prune Bark, holisticonline.com

Herb Information

Name: Wild Cherry Bark

Biological Name: Prunus serotina

Rosaceae

Other Names: Wild Cherry Bark, Virginia Prune Bark

Parts Used: Dried bark

Active Compounds:

	Prunasin, a cyanogenetic glycoside. The pharmacologists main interest in Wild Cherry Bark is due to the presence of the cyanogenetic glycoside prunasin.
	Benzaldehyde
	Miscellaneous; 3,4,5-trimethoxybenzoic acid (= eudesmic acid), p-coumaric acid, scopoletin (a coumarin derivative), tannins, sugars.

History:

There is a long tradition of using wild cherry syrups to treat coughs and other lung problems. It has also been used to treat diarrhea and for relief of pain.

Remedies For:

Anti-tussive, expectorant, astringent, nervine, anti-spasmodic.

Wild Cherry Bark is used mainly in the treatment of irritating coughs, bronchitis and whooping cough. It is used with other herbs in the control of asthma. Note that the inhibition of a cough does not equate with the healing of a chest infection; it should be treated. This herb may also be used as a bitter where digestion is sluggish. The cold infusion of the bark may be helpful as a wash in cases of inflammation of the eyes.

Traditional herbalists recommend this herb for rapid, weak circulation; continual irritative cough, with profuse muco-purulent expectoration; cardiac palpitation, from debility; dyspnoea; pyrexia; loss of appetite; and cardiac pain.

Combinations : May be used widely with many different herbs.

Description:

Although native to North America, wild cherry trees now grow in many other countries.

Dosage:

Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto l teaspoonful of the dried bark and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.

Tincture: take 1-2 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Safety:

Very large amounts of wild cherry pose the theoretical risk of causing cyanide poisoning. However, this has not been observed in clinical practice, making it a very safe herbal remedy. No other information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.