Wild Cherry Bark

Identity

Common Name

Wild Cherry Bark

Scientific Name

Prunus serotina

Botanical Family

Rosaceae

Native Region

Eastern North America

Cultivation Regions

North America

Plant Parts Used

Inner bark (young branches)

Synonyms

Black Cherry, Wild Black Cherry, Choke Cherry Bark

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A large forest tree with oval green leaves, clusters of small white flowers, and small dark red-black cherries. The reddish-brown inner bark is the medicinal part, long the base of 'wild cherry syrup'.

Historical Background

Wild cherry bark was the classic American cough remedy, the base of the famous 'wild cherry cough syrup' listed in early U.S. pharmacopeias.

Earliest recorded uses: Cough, cold, and soothing irritated, tickly coughs.

Cultural significance: A signature remedy of 19th-century American pharmacy; once nearly every cough syrup drew on wild cherry bark.

1. Indigenous

   Native American groups use wild cherry bark for coughs and colds.

2. 19th century

   Wild cherry syrup codified in the U.S. Pharmacopeia.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Bitter almond, woody, aromatic

Tea Information

Research Summary

Prunasin and wild cherry bark have a long antitussive tradition; modern controlled trials are lacking.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources