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Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha & C. monogyna)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Rosaceae
  • Common Names: Hawthorn, May Tree, Quickthorn
  • Parts Used: Berries, leaves, flowers

Description

Hawthorn is a spiny shrub or small tree native to Europe, North America, and Asia. It produces white or pink flowers in spring and small red berries in the fall. Hawthorn has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, particularly for heart and circulatory health.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional European herbal medicine to strengthen the heart and improve circulation.
  • Incorporated into folk remedies for digestive issues and anxiety.
  • Known as a symbol of longevity and protection in various cultures.

Constituents

  • Flavonoids (quercetin, hyperoside)
  • Oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs)
  • Triterpenes
  • Vitexin
  • Phenolic acids
  • Tannins

Actions

  • Cardioprotective
  • Antioxidant
  • Hypotensive (lowers blood pressure)
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Circulatory tonic
  • Nervine (calms the nervous system)

Medicinal Uses

1. Cardiovascular Health:
Hawthorn is one of the most well-known herbs for supporting heart health. It strengthens and tones the heart muscle, improves blood flow, and helps regulate blood pressure.

2. Blood Pressure Regulation:
Hawthorn’s vasodilatory effects help lower high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and improving circulation.

3. Arrhythmias and Palpitations:
It is traditionally used to stabilize irregular heartbeats and reduce palpitations, particularly those caused by anxiety or stress.

4. Anxiety and Nervous Tension:
As a mild nervine, hawthorn helps calm the nervous system and reduce symptoms of anxiety, making it useful in cases of stress-related cardiovascular issues.

5. Antioxidant Protection:
The flavonoids and proanthocyanidins in hawthorn protect the cardiovascular system from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of heart disease.

6. Digestive Aid:
Hawthorn berries have a mild astringent effect that can help soothe digestive issues, including diarrhea and indigestion.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried hawthorn berries, leaves, or flowers per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of hawthorn tincture, taken 2-3 times daily.

Capsules:

  • 300-600 mg of hawthorn extract per dose, taken 1-2 times daily.

Syrup:

  • Hawthorn berries can be cooked into a syrup and taken as a tonic for heart health.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe in moderate amounts, but consult a healthcare professional before use.
  • Medication Interactions: May enhance the effects of blood pressure or heart medications, including beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors.
  • Low Blood Pressure: Use with caution if you have hypotension.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Ayurvedic: Cooling and slightly astringent, hawthorn helps balance pitta and kapha while supporting vata in moderation.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine: Used to promote blood circulation and resolve blood stasis.

Combinations

  • For Heart Health: Combine with motherwort and garlic.
  • For Anxiety and Stress: Combine with lemon balm and valerian.
  • For Blood Pressure Support: Combine with linden and hibiscus.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Berries are harvested in the fall when fully ripe. Flowers and leaves are collected in spring.
  • Drying: Dry the berries, leaves, and flowers in a warm, well-ventilated area away from sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried parts in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Modern Research

Studies have demonstrated hawthorn’s effectiveness in improving heart function, reducing blood pressure, and alleviating symptoms of mild to moderate heart failure. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are being further explored.

Hawthorn remains a cornerstone herb for cardiovascular health, offering support for heart function, blood pressure regulation, and emotional well-being.