Honeysuckle flower, whole

Background: While honesuckle is widely used in Europe, Western medicine rarely uses this plant for herbal remedies. Honesuckle has been most commonly used to treat asthma and other conditions of the respiratory system. It's also been used to treat homesickness. Honesuckle actually has many uses, but the function really depends on the part of the plant that's used.

In China, there's another form of honeysuckel known as jin yin hua. This is actually used to treat infections and high blood pressure. The form that's most often used in Western herbal medicine, however, does not share the same properties.

Applications: Diuretic/Astringent/Antispasmodic

Honeysuckle is primarily used to treat ailments of the respiratory system.

Diuretic: Honeysuckle bark is a strong diuretic that can help to remove toxins from the body. This makes it useful for the treatment of gout.

Astringent: Honeysuckle leaves are astringent. They are useful for making a mouthwash or gargle for problems in the mouth.

Respiratory System: Honesuckle flowers can be used to treat asthma and cough. The antispasmodic properties help to relax the muscles in the chest.