“Discover the Medicinal Benefits of Forsythia: Anti-inflammatory, Antiviral, and Antibacterial Effects”

Forsythia – also popularly called “golden rain” – is a shrub often seen in parks and gardens at this time. These golden-yellow bushes with flowers having star-shaped petals have a special appearance, but also act as an anti-dust barrier in cities. Forsythia flowers can also be used medicinally.

Although there are not enough studies to validate its benefits, forsythia can be used as an adjuvant in various conditions, due to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial effects. However, do not follow a natural treatment with this herb without first asking your doctor’s advice, especially if you are already taking various medications.

What benefits can Forsythia have?

In vitro and laboratory animal studies show that forsythia can be helpful in relieving certain medical problems.

For example, o research published in the journal Molecules indicates that this plant can be effective in fighting infection with Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli and streptococcus.

Another study published in the journal Integrative Biology showed that forsythia and honeysuckle can speed healing in cases of common flu virus infection and relieve symptoms such as fever or sore throat.

At the same time, a in vitro study published in the Journal of Medicinal Plant Research shows that forsythia can be effective against infection with the AH1N1 influenza virus (also known as the “new flu” or swine flu – because it was originally detected in pigs from which transmission to humans was achieved) .

Another research shows that forsythia could inhibit the growth of tumors in mice.

Last but not least, forsythia can be used as an adjuvant in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis, shows a study conducted on laboratory animals, published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology.

Forsythia: contraindications and risks

Although generally considered safe when taken as directed by a doctor, forsythia can slow the blood clotting process. Consequently, it may increase the risk of bleeding, and is not indicated for people who are going to undergo surgery in the next 2 weeks.

Pregnant or lactating women should not follow a natural treatment with this plant either.

Also, forsythia should not replace a treatment for a serious illness. If an alternative treatment is desired, the recommendation is to ask the doctor’s advice beforehand, to avoid possible side effects that may occur in combination with the allopathic treatment.