Characteristics of Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle is a perennial, deciduous plant that grows as a climbing shrub with a characteristic pleasant fragrance. It belongs to the genus Lonicera, which includes about 200 different honeysuckle species. The best known of these are Lonicera caprifolia, Lonicera japonica, Lonicera periclymenum and Lonicera sempervirens.
Honeysuckle is a hardy plant and some species can survive for up to 20 years.
It grows in fertile, well-drained soil, has a strong spreading habit, and for successful flowering it needs direct sun exposure for several hours a day. Different varieties of honeysuckle can be found in both hemispheres of the earth. Its multicolored flowers have an attractive scent and bloom from June to September. The fragrance and beauty of the plant’s flowers give honeysuckle its unique characteristics, which make its presence felt in many gardens.
The essential oil of honeysuckle is produced by steam distillation of the plant’s flowers, which are collected in the early morning hours.

History of Honeysuckle

Some of the earliest information about the use of the plant comes from Chinese civilization, who used it to treat headaches and diseases of the digestive system, particularly of the stomach and large intestine. Honeysuckle also appears among the ancient Celts, who attributed to the plant an energetic protection against negative influences. Ancient Greek healers used it for spleen disorders and, together
with the rose, it became a symbol of love. They often used it in rituals and theatrical performances.
Honeysuckle was first cultivated in Russia in 1883 and its cultivation later spread throughout Europe. In the early 19th century it began to be cultivated in America mainly for ornamental purposes.

Ingredients

Essential oil of honeysuckle from fresh flowers obtained by steam distillation.

Chemical composition of honeysuckle essential oil:

Quercetin, Vitamin C, antioxidant substances, potassium, eugenol, linalool, geraniol, flavonoids, aromadendrene, iridoid glycosides, triterpenic glycosides, tannins, mucilage, quinic acid, caffeic acid.

Instructions for use

- Add a few drops of honeysuckle essential oil to a blend of coconut and almond oils and enjoy a night massage to release all the day’s tension.*
- Add 2–3 drops to a warm bath to soothe skin after sun exposure.
- In combination with evening primrose oil it is particularly beneficial for hot, burning joints, especially during the warm summer months.*
- Put a few drops in an oil burner to bring positive, relaxing energy into your room.
* Contact our pharmacist for the preparation of the blend.

Chinese medicine

According to traditional Chinese medicine, honeysuckle is called Jin yin hua and its properties are sweet and cooling. It is associated with the lung, stomach and large intestine meridians. It is used to treat diarrhea and to cleanse the body of excess heat and toxins.

Useful tips

Its use should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by children.
Essential oils are intended for external use and are always used diluted in a carrier oil (or other medium).
Avoid direct contact with the skin and exposure to the sun after use.