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Loquat Leaf Anti-viral Syrup Traditional Remedy

 Loquat leaf tea (Biwa Cha) is a traditional herbal tea used as a remedy for preventing and treating respiratory ailments. 

Use as a virus preventative as well as a cough syrup. 
Standard viruses are subject to the power of the Loquat Leaf. There is evidence that suggests that the Loquat leaf produces a variety of acids that have an anti-viral effect. These acids produce antigens, which are anti-viral agents. Two of these chemicals are called megastimane glycosides and polyphenolic constituents which are known to produce viral antigens. Further, the triterpene chemicals help to directly reduce rhinovirus infections (colds of various kinds).

{I felt that the information here might benefit some people suffering through the COVID-19 situation. This is part of the research I have been doing for an upcoming publication. If it helps you or someone you know,  please let me know.}

 A fruit of wide appeal, the Loquat (Eriobotrya japomica Lindl.) is a member of the Rosaceae or rose family and is also called the Japanese Plum.
  The Loquat is indigenous to southeastern China and possibly Japan, where it has been grown for over 1000 years. It may have been introduced into Japan sometime earlier, though. The Japanese use Loquat leaves as a traditional remedy for preventing and treating respiratory ailments. 


  The western world first learned of the Loquat from the botanist Kaempfer in 1690. By the early 1800's it was being cultivated from France to England, throughout India and southeastern Asia. It was growing at the medium altitudes of the East Indies, in Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. By 1867 the Nispero, as the Spanish call it, was being cultivated in Florida and throughout much of the temperate world. 

  Through various methods of propagation there are now hundreds of varieties of Loquat being grown worldwide for ornamental use, fruit production and as a medicinal.
  Loquat leaf tea (Biwa Cha) is a traditional herbal tea used as a remedy for preventing and treating respiratory ailments. The tea ceremony in Japanese culture has long held an important place in daily life. Various herbs are often used as part of the ceremony to promote wellness. Senjira means to infuse in Japanese and is a time tested brew method used to extract the beneficial elements or essence from an herb and to bring out it's true flavor.

 The following is one method for infusing the essence from Loquat leaves.

The leaves are picked green, washed and the underside scraped thoroughly to remove the membrane, if present. The leaves are then shredded and used green or dried for later use.
Senjira:
1. Pour a little more than 4 cups of pure water into a kettle.
2. Add about two heaping tablespoons of dried Loquat leaves or 4-5 fresh leaves to kettle.
3. Heat uncovered to a full rolling boil.
4. Turn down heat and cover tightly. Let simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Turn heat off and let cool for 10 minutes. Remove lid carefully allowing the liquid containing essential oils to drip back into the kettle. 
6. Strain and serve hot or cold.

Traditional Chinese medicine dates back more than 2500 years and is still in wide use today. A popular Chinese cough medicine is Loquat syrup. It is made with raw honey and a blend of herbs, including Loquat leaves. Reportedly, the recipe was created during the reign of Emperor Kangxi (1654-1722) of the Qing dynasty by Yang Xiaolian, a Chinese provincial commander. The commander is said to have visited doctors and traditional practitioners all over the land trying to find a cure for his ailing mother.
 One traditional recipe for the cough syrup contains at least 16 ingredients. A mixture of 1 part raw local honey combine with 1 part infusion of Loquat leaves (Biwa Cha) may provide the most benefit.

Method:
Prepare Loquat leaf tea (Biwa Cha) as described. While still warm combine with equal parts of raw local honey and stir until well blended. Cover tightly and store in cool dry place, such as a refrigerator.
Take one tablespoon of the syrup in the morning and at bed time. May also be used as needed to help with sore throat and cough. 

CAUTION: The leaves of the Loquat contain a mixture of triterpenes, along with tannin, vitamin B and ascorbic acid; in addition, there are traces of arsenic in some varieties. Young leaves contain saponin. May cause allergic reaction in some individuals. Never try any herbal remedy without first consulting your Doctor or a trained herbalist. 

You are encouraged to do your own research into this and other herbal remedies.

©2020 CT Langrick
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