Organic Hawthorn Berries (Crataegus monogyna)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Hawthorn Berries (Crataegus spp.)

Family:

Rosaceae

Common Names:

May Tree, Thornapple, Quickthorn, Whitethorn, Heart Berry

Origin:

Native to Europe, North America, and parts of Asia.

Parts Used:

Berries (fruit), sometimes leaves and flowers

Habitat:

Hawthorn trees thrive in well-drained, loamy soil and are commonly found in woodlands, hedgerows, and rocky hillsides. They prefer full sun to partial shade and are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

History and Folklore:

Hawthorn has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries, especially in Europe, where it is known for its cardioprotective effects. Ancient Greeks and Romans considered it a symbol of love and protection. In Celtic and Druid traditions, hawthorn trees were thought to be sacred, and it was believed that fairies lived in them. Traditionally, hawthorn was used as a tonic for the heart, and it was also thought to protect against evil spirits.

Metaphysical Properties:

Hawthorn is associated with protection, love, and vitality. It is often used in rituals to protect the home, promote healing, and attract love. Hawthorn is also believed to increase courage and strength, making it a powerful herb for emotional resilience.

Botany:

Hawthorn is a small, thorny deciduous tree or shrub that can grow up to 15-30 feet tall. It has lobed, serrated leaves and small white or pink flowers that bloom in clusters in the spring. In the fall, it produces red, oval-shaped berries (known as "haws") that are harvested for their medicinal properties. The berries have a tart, slightly sweet taste.

Growing and Harvesting:

Hawthorn can be grown from seeds or cuttings and prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil. The berries are typically harvested in the fall when they are fully ripe. They can be used fresh, dried, or made into tinctures, teas, and syrups.

Constituents:

• Flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, vitexin): Potent antioxidants that support cardiovascular health and reduce inflammation.
• Procyanidins: Antioxidants that strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation.
• Tannins: Provide astringent properties that help tighten tissues and reduce inflammation.
• Triterpenes: Compounds with anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective effects.
• Phenolic Acids: Contribute to the plant’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Energetics:

• Temperature: Warming
• Taste: Bitter, Sour, Sweet

Medicinal Actions:

• Cardiotonic: Strengthens and tones the heart, improving cardiovascular function.
• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative stress, particularly in the cardiovascular system.
• Hypotensive: Helps lower blood pressure by improving circulation and reducing arterial tension.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation throughout the body, particularly in the cardiovascular and digestive systems.
• Vasodilator: Expands blood vessels, promoting healthy blood flow.
• Astringent: Tightens tissues and reduces inflammation, helpful for toning veins and capillaries.

System Affinities:

• Cardiovascular System: Supports heart health, strengthens blood vessels, and promotes healthy blood pressure levels.
• Circulatory System: Improves circulation and helps reduce symptoms of poor blood flow, such as cold extremities.
• Nervous System: Calms the nervous system and helps alleviate stress, anxiety, and insomnia.
• Digestive System: Its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties can support digestive health and reduce mild inflammation.

Uses:

• Tea: Hawthorn berry tea is commonly used to support heart health, improve circulation, and reduce stress. It has a mild, earthy flavor and can be combined with other herbs like hibiscus.
• Tincture: Used for cardiovascular support, particularly in managing mild hypertension, strengthening the heart, and reducing stress.
• Capsules/Tablets: Available as a supplement for systemic use, particularly for heart and blood pressure support.
• Syrup or Jam: The berries can be cooked down and made into syrup or jam, which can be enjoyed as a heart-healthy treat.
• Extract: Hawthorn berry extract is used for its potent antioxidant and heart-supporting properties.

Cautions:

• Blood Pressure Medication: Hawthorn may enhance the effects of blood pressure-lowering medications, so it should be used with caution by those already taking antihypertensive drugs. Consult a healthcare provider if you are on such medications.
• Heart Conditions: Hawthorn can support heart health, but those with serious cardiovascular conditions should use it under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Hawthorn is generally considered safe in moderate amounts, but it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Scientific Studies:

1. A study in Phytomedicine highlighted hawthorn’s cardioprotective effects, showing that it improves blood flow, reduces blood pressure, and supports heart health.
2. Research in Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology confirmed hawthorn’s ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels, supporting its use in treating cardiovascular conditions.
3. A study in European Journal of Heart Failure demonstrated that hawthorn extract may improve symptoms in patients with mild heart failure, such as reducing fatigue and shortness of breath.