Papaya - a world class meat tenderizer, natural digestive aid, prevents ulcers, and also a soft contact lense cleaner.Healing with Wild Cherry
Wild cherry continues to be listed in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia as an expectorant and mild sedative.
Cough - Only one scientific source-the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-disputes wild cherry’s value. The FDA concluded wild cherry bark “is of little if any remedial value I except I as a flavoring agent.” The FDA recognizes only one expectorant as safe and effective-guaifenesen. Ironically, many lung authorities consider guaifenesen ineffective. Try wild cherry and see if it works for you.
Tranquilizer, Sedative - In recommended doses, one chemical in this herb, hydrocyanic acid, appears to act as a mild tranquilizer and sedative. However. hydrocyanic acid is related to cyanide, and unusually large amounts are poisonous. Stick to recommended amounts.
Rx for Wild Cherry
For an infusion that may help treat cough, stress, anxiety, or insomnia, use I teaspoon of powdered bark per cup of boiling water. Steep 10 minutes. Drink up to 3 cups a day. Wild cherry has a pleasant aroma but a bitter, astringent taste; adding honey, sugar, and lemon or mixing it with an herbal beverage blend will improve flavor.
In a tincture, take ¼ to ½ teaspoon up to three times a day. Wild cherry should not be given to children under age 2.
For older children and people over 65, start with a low-strength preparation and increase strength if necessary.