Hawthorn - Health benefits

Hawthorn (Whitethorn, Crataegus ocyacanthoides) belongs to the Rose family. It grows in hedgerows, scrub and woodland margins. The thorny shrubs or small trees have clusters of white or pink flowers in spring followed by deep red berries in autumn. It survives poor soils and high winds.

Medicinal and culinary use:

In early spring you can eat the leaves. In earlier times the leaves where “the bread and butter”. Children ate them on their way to school. The leaves have a nutty flavour and are very high in protein. They taste delicious and can be used as a nut replacement in dips and salads.

In spring you can use the flowering tops to make a tea or tincture or you dry them for use later on in the year. Or you make a delightful lemonade out of the flowers.

In autumn you harvest the red berries and either dry them or make a tincture.

Hawthorn is best known for its relation to the heart. It is a superb circulatory tonic, protecting and strengthening the heart muscle and its blood supply.

- It can be used for mild to moderate hypertension

- For rapid heartbeat and thrombosis

- It is a very safe herb and can be taken long term

- It has calming qualities and can help to reduce anxiety and mood swings

- It also helps to lower cholesterol

It works well in combination with other herbs:

- With valerian for the nervous heart

- With lime flowers for high blood pressure

- With horseradish or cayenne as a circulatory stimulant

Caution

- If you have any warning signs relating to the heart always get a check-up with your doctor first.

- If you are on medication it is best to arrange a consultation with a herbalist