Detoxicate; Clears away toxic substances.Clearing heat and detoxicating, removing heat from the blood and arresting dysentery.
Kills or inhibits the action of germs.
Cools and reduces fever and heat.
Reduces ulcers, swell, sore throat, skin infection.
Clears the lungs and strengthens general health.

Honeysuckle is a familiar climbing, flowering plant whose many varieties grow worldwide. The flower's name is derived from the fact that children enjoy sucking the nectar from its blossoms. Honeysuckle has been used medicinally in China for generations, where it is employed in TCM to clear heat and toxins from the body, but it has only recently been adopted by Western herbalists.

Current studies in China have found Honeysuckle to be effective in reducing inflammation, fever and infection, and these studies have also indicated that Honeysuckle may have some promise in treating malignant breast disease. Chinese researchers think that Honeysuckle may help regulate blood sugar levels, thus theoretically helping to stave off adult onset diabetes. It has also been shown to inhibit tuberculosis.

Honeysuckle also combines well with other herbs. It has been used in conjunction with Chrysanthemum to lower blood pressure, with Skullcap to reduce fever and with Cowslip or Elecampane as an expectorant. Honeysuckle is a natural source of salicylic acid, the compound from which aspirin is made, and can thus be used in cases of headache, joint pain and fevers. Honeysuckle has been used as a gargle for sore throats and mouth ulcers, and it may also be used as a mild laxative, diuretic and diaphoretic. Topically, Honeysuckle has been used to ease the pain of sunburn and reduce the itching of poison ivy and other rashes.