Hawthorne Herb
The prickley Hawthorne bush is native to Europe, Africa and western Asia and is often used as a hedge in Europe though it grows to be about 13 feet high. In North American climates the hawthorne tree grows to about 5 feet tall. The Hawthorne plant has a grayish colored bark and thorns that grow along the branches. The leaves are shiny and dark green with a bluish tint to the undersides. Hawthorne trees produce white flowers and bright red berries that hang in clusters.
Hawthorne berries are widely used for heart problems and its medicinal value for blood and heart related illness is thought to be both effective and safer than other drugs with similar qualities. Hawthorne is used for irregular heart beat, to lessen the plaque build up in arteries and increase blood flow and oxygen in the blood to the heart and brain.
In addition to the benefits to the heart and circulatory system Hawthorne has been used to rid the body of excess water and salts and support weight loss programs. Medicinal properties extend to digestive disorders, insomnia and even sore throats can be relieved by Hawthorne. Effect of the benefits from Hawthorne herbals are seen after several weeks use as it is a slow acting herb. Hawthorn is available as a dried herb, tea and as a tincture which is more potent than the tea. It is sometimes found under the name Indian Hawthorne.
It is thought that the thorns of the Hawthorne tree were used to make the crown of thorns worn by Jesus at his crucifixion.
Hawthorne Tea
Hawthorne tea is prepared by steeping 1 2 teaspoons dried leaf and flower or 2 3 teaspoons of the dried crushed berry in 8 ounces of boiling water for 15 20 minutes. Hawthorne extract can also be added to other herbal teas for additional effects.
Hawthorne Uses & Herbal Remedies
Hawthorne is often used to quiet muscle spasms and as a sedative of the nervous system without inducing sleep.
A compress of Hawthorne berries have been used to help remove splinters and embedded foreign bodies in the skin.
Hawthorne is thought to be an effective treatment in heart disease and will help to improve blood supply to the heart and smooth the heart contractions.
The leaf bud of the Hawthorne can be cooked and eaten, the leaf can be chewed to nourish and relieve hunger, the berries can be used to make jellies and fruit sauces and the flowers can be added to salads.
Hawthorne Side Effects & Cautions
Hawthorne is considered a safe herb; however, caution should be made in excessive use of it.
