In the Hudson Valley, Forsythia is now blooming everywhere. This golden yellow flower is not only one of the first to bloom in early spring, but it is also a Chinese herb called Lian Qiao. Forsythia is well adapted in New York, but it is a native plant of eastern Asia. As an herb, it can clear heat, resolve toxicity, reduce swelling, and treat nodules. The fruits of Forsythia are often used in combination with other herbs to treat common colds and warm diseases.

It is always interesting to me that the plants available in a season often treat the diseases common in that season. During the transition from winter to spring, it is common to experience seasonal flu symptoms such as a sore throat. This is the ideal time to use Forsythia. In fact, Forsythia fruit is often paired with honeysuckle flowers (Jin Yin Hua), which will soon be blooming as well.