Hawthorn - Κράταιγος - Crataegus Monogyna / Crataegus Laevigata
Each pack contains ½ cup (125ml) of the Herb. The weight varies due to the density of each herb.
Basic Medicinal Properties:
Hawthorn is a powerful cardiovascular herb with heart-strengthening, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It supports heart health, regulates blood pressure, improves circulation, and relieves anxiety. Traditionally, it has been used to strengthen the heart, aid digestion, and promote longevity.
Additional Details
Supports Heart Health and Circulation
Hawthorn is one of the most well-known herbal remedies for heart and circulatory health. It helps strengthen the heart muscle, improve blood flow, and regulate heart rhythm. Studies suggest it may help in managing conditions such as high blood pressure, heart palpitations, and mild heart failure.
Regulates Blood Pressure and Reduces Cholesterol
Hawthorn contains flavonoids and proanthocyanidins that support blood vessel health, reduce arterial stiffness, and improve circulation. It may help lower high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Rich in Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Hawthorn berries, leaves, and flowers are rich in antioxidants that protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. This supports not only heart health but also overall vitality and immune function.
Eases Anxiety and Supports Nervous System Health
Hawthorn has mild sedative properties that help ease anxiety, stress, and nervous tension. It has been used as a natural remedy to promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
Aids Digestion and Gut Health
Traditionally, hawthorn was used as a digestive tonic. It stimulates digestion, supports gut motility, and helps relieve bloating, indigestion, and mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
May Support Longevity and Vitality
Hawthorn has been associated with longevity and vitality, particularly in European herbal traditions. Its ability to strengthen the heart, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation makes it a valuable herb for ageing individuals.
About the Herb
Historical and Folklore Uses
Hawthorn has been used medicinally since ancient times, with records of its use in Greek, Roman, and Traditional Chinese Medicine. Dioscorides, a physician in ancient Greece, recommended hawthorn for cardiovascular health and digestion.
During the Middle Ages, hawthorn was regarded as a protective and sacred plant. Monks and herbalists prepared hawthorn-based tonics to treat heart ailments, and it became a staple in European folk medicine.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hawthorn berries (Shan Zha) are used to aid digestion and promote heart health, often included in herbal formulas to improve circulation.
Folklore and Symbolism
Hawthorn has long been associated with magic, protection, and love. In Celtic tradition, it was considered a sacred tree connected to the fairy realm, often growing near holy wells and ancient sites. Cutting down a hawthorn tree was believed to bring misfortune.
In English folklore, hawthorn was linked to May Day celebrations, symbolising fertility and renewal. It was also believed to ward off evil spirits and protect homes when hung above doorways.
Culinary and Traditional Uses
Hawthorn berries are used to make herbal teas, jams, and tinctures, particularly for heart health.
The young leaves and flowers were traditionally eaten in salads or brewed into herbal infusions.
In TCM, hawthorn berries are used in digestive remedies and are often incorporated into health tonics.
Interesting Facts
Hawthorn trees can live for hundreds of years and are often found growing in ancient hedgerows and sacred sites.
The plant is known as the “heart herb” due to its long history of use in cardiovascular support.
In Victorian England, hawthorn was a symbol of hope and was often given as a gift to convey good fortune.
The berries have a slightly tart flavour and have been used in traditional herbal wines and cordials.