Honeysuckle from the Yao Ethnic Group in Zhengu Township

Honeysuckle from the Yao Ethnic Group in Zhengu Township

　　Zhengu Yao Ethnic Township in Shanglin County is located in a karst mountainous area, characterized by rugged limestone hills. It has a South subtropical climate with abundant rainfall. The annual average temperature is 19.6°C, and the annual average precipitation is 1,677 millimeters.

　　Over the past two years, grassroots agricultural technicians in the township have diligently implemented the reform and construction subsidy project for the grassroots agricultural technology extension system. By visiting local communities and conducting field surveys, they discovered that the limestone hills in five villages—Longgui, Fozhi, Zhengwan, Zhenglang, and Paihong—are particularly suitable for honeysuckle cultivation. They reported this finding to the local government, which provided strong support. Over the past two years, a total of 450,000 honeysuckle seedlings have been distributed across the township, covering a planting area of 11,000 mu. This has accelerated the adjustment of the agricultural industrial structure, increased agricultural efficiency, and boosted farmers’ incomes. Honeysuckle has now developed into a distinctive local industry.

　　Since the beginning of the year, the township has planted honeysuckle on 22,000 mu, generating an output value of over 40 million yuan. Four honeysuckle planting cooperatives have been established, along with a local honeysuckle processing factory. The “Yaoshan Qing” (Yao Mountain Sentiment) brand of honeysuckle tea has also been successfully launched. To further consolidate the honeysuckle industry, the Yao Ethnic Township has supported local Yao people in expanding cultivation by approximately 8,000 mu this year.

　　Benefits of Honeysuckle

　　1. Antibacterial and antiviral properties. It has significant inhibitory effects on Staphylococcus aureus, hemolytic streptococcus, dysentery, typhoid, meningococcus, pneumococcus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and influenza viruses.

　　2. Immune system enhancement. Honeysuckle promotes lymphocyte transformation and enhances the phagocytic function of white blood cells.

　　3. Anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects. Honeysuckle stimulates the release of adrenal cortical hormones and has a notable inhibitory effect on inflammation.

　　4. Beyond its medicinal uses, honeysuckle offers remarkable benefits for beauty, weight loss, and health preservation. Its powerful protective and restorative effects on the body are highly significant. Honeysuckle can relieve summer heat, sober up the mind, refresh the brain, quench thirst, remove toxins from the body, reduce fat, aid in weight loss, beautify and cleanse the skin, prevent aging, and prolong life.

　　Precautions for Using Honeysuckle:

　　1. It is not suitable for frequent use by individuals with weak spleen and stomach.

　　2. It should not be consumed regularly, as it may weaken the constitution. It is only recommended when there is internal heat or during colds and coughs, and long-term use is not advised.

　　3. Honeysuckle has a cool nature and may affect the digestive functions of the spleen and stomach. This herb is generally more appropriate for use during hot summer months.

　　Source: Shanglin Tourism Website