Hawthorn has been known as a medicinal remedy in Europe since at least the 1st century AD. In 1990, it was even named Medicinal Plant of the Year in Germany. Here, we offer you a brief overview of its benefits.
A medicine of antiquity
Hawthorns (Crataegus) are a genus within the rose family. There are over 200 species that thrive in the temperate zones of the Northern Hemisphere, most of them in North America. In Europe, there are about 22 distinct species, while in Germany there are only three. These are very similar to one another. Since hybrids also exist, clear identification is not always possible. Archaeological finds have proven that hawthorn fruits served as food thousands of years ago. The plant is first mentioned as a medicine in the 1st century by the Greek physician Pedanius Dioscorides, who is considered a pioneer of pharmacology. The common hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna), which grows up to eight meters tall, is primarily considered the medicinal plant. The dried branches along with the flowers and leaves are used. You can prepare tea or pressed juice yourself or purchase hawthorn in various forms as a supplement.
Hawthorn: The heart specialist
The effect of hawthorn as a heart-strengthening agent and thus as support for the cardiovascular system was only proven by American doctors toward the end of the last century. The medically interesting ingredients of the medicinal plant increase the contraction strength of the heart. At the same time, they act as vasodilators, meaning they also widen the coronary arteries, thereby ensuring an improved oxygen supply to the heart muscle. Hawthorn is considered well-tolerated, and consumption is said to lead to no side effects even with long-term use. Other names for the common hawthorn include the whitethorn or, due to its thorns, the thornapple. Since the red fruits can also be used to bake bread, it is sometimes called bread-berry.
What hawthorn is used for
Its outstanding effect lies in the mild strengthening of the heart. Therefore, hawthorn supplements are recommended as an accompanying therapy for high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, or generally for strengthening the heart muscle (especially in advanced age). In general, hawthorn is considered helpful in alleviating the symptoms of cardiovascular diseases. Traditionally, hawthorn is also used for other ailments. In folk medicine, it is considered a mild sleep aid, as well as a remedy for mild stress symptoms, weather sensitivity, and nervous heart complaints. Hawthorn also serves as a helpful plant for circulatory disorders, which often lead to headaches as well as a drop in concentration and performance.
• Are you interested in health products containing hawthorn? Find out more here.
