Wild Honeysuckle Throat and Cough Syrup

The wild honeysuckle is blooming. We were standing in the garden over Easter weekend, my Dad and I, when the wind picked up. You can sure smell the honeysuckle today, he said.

I'm not sure why, but that moment was so comforting to me, somehow.

It turns out, honeysuckle in itself is very comforting. Its sweetly-scented blossoms are antibacterial weapons in disguise. One herb reference I read said they're useful for treating bacterial infections and dysentery, as well as urinary tract disorders. They also go to work on freeing your body of toxins and do a number on colds, flu, asthma, coughs, sore throat, congestion (chest) and laryngitis. Externally, honeysuckle can be applied to infected wounds, boils, swellings and rheumatism.

Point is, honeysuckle is herbal remedy gold. I spent part of the weekend gathering a bucket full of blooms and leaves. (All part of the plant is useful except for the berries. They're toxic. Don't pick those. You don't want those.)

 The first blend I concocted was a Wild Honeysuckle Throat and Cough Syrup.  I can't believe how simple and quick it was, and how soothing it's been. I've tried it for three days now, not because I'm sick, but because I figured with allergy season upon me it wouldn't hurt. And you know what? I think there's something to this syrup. I think I'll keep it around always.

If you don't have honeysuckle growing wild around your little house, you can always use dried honeysuckle. I'm sure it can be found at herb shops online. The first step is just taking the plunge, trying an herbal remedy, and finding what works for you. And I'm not sure about you, but I'd rather put all-natural medicinal cures in my body anyday than lab-manufactured drugs with a book of side effects.

For more on my Wild Honeysuckle Syrup, including the recipe, click here and scroll down.

(Please know that I'm not a health professional or certified herbalist and my recommendations should not be taken as medical advice and obviously have not been approved by the FDA. You should consult your doctor and carefully study any herbal remedy before taking a swig. There. Had to put my law education to work. ;)