Wild Cherry Bark (Prunus serotina)

Dried inner bark of Prunus serotina, Wild Black Cherry, the large eastern North American tree. The inner bark has long traditional use among Native peoples and in Eclectic Western herbalism as a respiratory support herb, particularly for coughs. The bark is the source of "wild cherry" flavor in traditional throat lozenges and cough syrups, both old-time pharmaceutical and folk preparations.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Prunus serotina

Family

Rosaceae (rose family)

Common names

Wild Cherry, Black Cherry, Wild Black Cherry, Choke Cherry (loose name)

Native region

Eastern North America

Active compounds

Prunasin (a cyanogenic glycoside, the source of the "almond" aroma)

Traditional uses

Respiratory support, traditional cough support, in syrup preparations

What is Wild Cherry Bark?

Wild Black Cherry is a large native tree of eastern North America. The inner bark has been used by Native peoples (Cherokee, Iroquois, and others) and in Eclectic Western herbalism for respiratory support, particularly traditional cough use. The bark contains prunasin, a cyanogenic glycoside that gives the bark a characteristic almond-like aroma; in very small amounts the compound has traditional anti-tussive properties, but high doses are toxic.

Important Safety Note

Wild Cherry Bark contains cyanogenic glycosides (the same compound class found in apricot kernels, bitter almonds, and other Rosaceae seeds and bark). In traditional small-amount syrup preparation the herb is generally well-tolerated, but high-dose or prolonged use is not recommended. Not recommended during pregnancy. Use traditional small-amount preparations.

How to Use Wild Cherry Bark

Traditional cough syrup: simmer 1 tablespoon of cut bark in 2 cups water for 20-30 minutes; strain; cool; add 1 cup honey; bottle. Take 1 teaspoon as needed. Tincture: alcohol extracts the active compounds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Wild Cherry Bark used for?
Traditional Western and Native American respiratory support, particularly for traditional cough use.

Why does it smell like almonds?
The prunasin content (a cyanogenic glycoside) gives the bark a characteristic almond aroma.

Is it safe?
In traditional small-amount preparations, generally well-tolerated. High-dose or prolonged use is not recommended due to cyanogenic glycoside content.

Is "wild cherry" flavor in cough drops real?
Traditional cough syrups and drops were often flavored with actual wild cherry bark; modern commercial versions typically use artificial flavoring.

Is it safe during pregnancy?
No; not recommended during pregnancy.

Which Indigenous peoples used Wild Cherry Bark?
Cherokee, Iroquois, and many other eastern North American peoples.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.