Related Terms

• Caprifoliaceae (family), Chinese honeysuckle, coral honeysuckle, eglantine, European honeysuckle, Hall's Japanese honeysuckle, Japanese honeysuckle, Lonicera caerulea, Lonicera japonica, Lonicera japonica holliana, Lonicera periclymenum, Lonicera sempervirens, Lonicera spp., trumpet honeysuckle, white honeysuckle, woodbine honeysuckle, woodbine.

Background

• There are at least 180 species of honeysuckle, with most species found in Asia and a few in Europe and the Americas.

• In homeopathy, honeysuckle has been used for asthma, breathing difficulties, irritability with violent outbursts, and syphilis. However, currently there is no clinical evidence available supporting the use of honeysuckle for these conditions or any other indication.

• Honeysuckle poisoning from ingestion by children may cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms and cramping.

Scientific Evidence

Tradition/Theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious and should be evaluated by a qualified health care professional.

• Asthma, breathing difficulties, irritability (with violent outbursts), syphilis (STD).

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (18 years and older):

• There is no proven safe or effective dose for honeysuckle in adults.

Children (younger than 18 years):

• There is no proven safe or effective dose for honeysuckle in children.

Safety

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

• Avoid in individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.) or its constituents. Itchy raised blisters on the wrist have been reported after pulling Hall's Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica holliana).

Side Effects and Warnings

• There is insufficient evidence in humans to support the use of honeysuckle for any indication. Honeysuckle poisoning from ingestion may cause severe gastrointestinal symptoms and cramping. In addition, honeysuckle may cause contact dermatitis.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

• Honeysuckle is not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of available scientific evidence.

Interactions

Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.

Interactions with Drugs

• Insufficient available evidence.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

• Insufficient available evidence.

Author Information

• This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com).

References

Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to www.naturalstandard.com. Selected references are listed below.

1. Greenberger PA, Flais MJ. Bee pollen-induced anaphylactic reaction in an unknowingly sensitized subject. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2001;86(2):239-242. View Abstract

2. Lamminpaa A, Kinos M. Plant poisonings in children. Hum Exp Toxicol 1996;15(3):245-249. View Abstract

3. Webster RM. Honeysuckle contact dermatitis. Cutis 1993;51(6):424. View Abstract