Hawthorn

Species Name: Crataegus.

Also known as: Mayblossom, Hazels, Hagthorn, May, Ladies Meat, L’epine Noble, Gazels, Bread and Cheese Tree, Whitethorn.

The dried berries, leaves and flowers are the parts of the hawthorn plant that are used for herbal remedies.

It has been used for heart conditions every since the Middle Ages and still remains a very useful herb for this condition today.

What is Hawthorn: Hawthorn is a shrub that can grow up to about five feet. It is very common in wooded areas and grows well on hillsides.

It is found in North America, North Africa, Western Asia and Europe. The elements that are found in the berries, flowers and leaves are what are thought to be the key to all the health benefits that this herb provides.

The berries that are found on the hawthorn shrub are called “haws” and they are very small and shaped like an apple. The flowers on this herb are white and bloom in May, after which the berries begin to sprout. These berries are usually red to almost a black color.

The leaves of this plant are shiny and grow in a variety of different shapes. The branches on the hawthorn shrub have very long and sharp thorns.

Home remedies using hawthorn:

Benefits of Hawthorn:

One of the most well-known benefits of the hawthorn is the ability to improve coronary blood flow or simply put, it helps your blood to circulate better. This helps to prevent or improve heart diseases, which is why it is used for treating congestive heart failure.

Other benefits include improving conditions such as atherosclerosis, hypertension and angina and circulatory conditions. It is also used to help even out blood pressure and for improving kidney problems. Hawthorn has also been used as a sedative.

Uses of Hawthorn:

• Heart conditions
• Diuretic
• Astringent
• Capsules
• Tablets
• Tonic

Side Effects of Hawthorn:

At this time it is believed that hawthorn is a safe herb to use but some side effects are possible. Some of the side effects you could experience include dizziness, drowsiness and nausea.

Other more serious side effects may include chest pain, fatigue, mood swings or trouble sleeping.

It is rare but possible for you to have an allergic reaction to this herb. If you feel that you may be having a reaction you should seek medical help immediately.

It is recommended that if you are pregnant or breast feeding that you do not take hawthorn.