Ingredient Name: Japanese Honeysuckle, Lonicera Japonica, Suikazura, Er hu, Shuang hua

Traditional Chinese Name: 金銀花 (Jīnyín huā) literal translation of “gold silver flower”

What is this?

• A species of invasive vine native to Eastern Asia (Japan, Korea, China)
• The raw flower is between white and yellow in color and the vines can grow up to 10m tall
• Extremely common in Chinese medicinal uses
• Considered cold (helps cool the body and detoxify)
• It is an anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory ingredient
• Used as a dried ingredient in drinks and Chinese medicine
• Western countries see this plant as a pest or weed

How do I prepare it?

• Rinse in warm water prior to use

Where can I buy this?

This is available in most Asian supermarkets
Also available in Chinese herbals stores

What is the cost

• 10 g cost around $2-3 HKD
• Extremely affordable

Any benefits?

• Is a cooling food
• Excellent in dispelling heat and toxins in the body
• Used to treat conditions such as fevers, skin rash, sore throat and other heaty conditions

Any precautions?

• Not be consumed by women who are pregnant – especially in first trimester as it’s a cooling food
• Consume with caution for people with pre-existing cold conditions

References:

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Japanese_Honeysuckle