Cherries, Sweet - Prunus avium

If local, call in-season for fresh cherries or year-round for pitted, frozen cherries. Certified Organic with no chemicals used. Cultivated, harvested, and processed by hand.

Alternative names: Wild cherry, bird cherry, gean, mazzard

Parts used: Fruit, bark, stalks, roots, blossoms

Actions and qualities: The fruit is sedative, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, and cough-suppressing. May help treat colds, bronchitis, and other lung-related health issues, as well as diarrhea, gout, and digestive disorders. The bark has been used to treat bronchitis and anemia.

Specific uses: The fruit is found in cough syrup, but also can flavor beverages like whiskey or gin. The fruit can be made into jams, liquors, or syrups. The bark can be made into an infusion. The roots and bark can be used to make natural dyes.

Contraindications: Do not take in large quantities. Anyone on medications should consult a physician before use. It should be avoided by pregnant and nursing mothers.

History and lore: The resin from the trunk used to be chewed like chewing gum.