Prunus avium vs Sea Holly

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Prunus avium

Urinary

Eryngium maritimum

Urinary

Prunus avium

✅ Generally safe in pregnancy

✅ Generally safe while nursing

Sea Holly

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

European cherry tree; stalks (peduncles) used as diuretic; bark for cough; fruit highly nutritious.

European coastal plant historically used as an aphrodisiac and diuretic; roots used for urinary and kidney conditions in European folk medicine.

Active Compounds

amygdalin, malic acid, citric acid, anthocyanins, quercetin, kaempferol

saponins, tannins, flavonoids, essential oils, rosmarinic acid

Traditional Uses

urinary conditions, cough, gout, arthritis, inflammation

Urinary disorders, Kidney conditions, Aphrodisiac use, Cough

Modern Uses

diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitussive

Diuretic activity, Anti-inflammatory effects, Antimicrobial properties, Expectorant action

Adult Dosage

5-10g dried cherry stalks as tea or 2-3ml tincture

Root decoction: 1-2 cups daily; 1-2ml tincture 3x daily

Contraindications

amygdalin in seeds - toxic, kidney disease

Pregnancy, Kidney disease (acute)

Side Effects

GI upset, seeds toxic

Mild diuretic effects, Gastric irritation with excess

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E