Hawthorn

Hawthorn Monograph

botanical name:

Crataegus

Common Name

Hawthorn, thornapple, mayblossom, mayhaw, may tree, whitehorn, hawberry, hagthorn, ladies’ meat, gazels, halves, bread and cheese tree

Family

Rosaceae

Parts Used

Fresh or dried berries,flowering tops, leaves

Native To:

Europe, Asia, North America, North Africa

Harvesting Guidelines

When harvesting hawthorn, it’s essential to take extra care due to the plant’s thorny branches. The flowers and leaves are typically harvested in the spring, when the plant is in full bloom. These parts of the plant are most potent when fresh, so it's important to collect them at their peak. The berries, which ripen in the late summer or early fall, are typically gathered after they have turned a deep red. They are known for their tart flavor and are often used in jams, jellies, syrups, and tinctures.

To safely harvest hawthorn flowers and leaves, wear gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself from the sharp thorns. Be sure to leave enough of the plant intact so it can continue to thrive. When harvesting the berries, gently remove them from the branches, ensuring you don’t damage the plant or disturb wildlife that may depend on the fruit.

For the best results when drying hawthorn, spread the flowers or leaves out in a cool, dry space, turning them regularly to prevent mold. Berries can be dried in a dehydrator or oven at low heat, or used fresh to make extracts or preserves.

---

Hawthorn, a tree native to temperate regions of Europe and North America, has been used for centuries as a symbol of love and a medicinal tonic for the heart. Its use as a cardiac tonic dates back to first-century Rome and has been employed by cultures around the world, including Native American, Chinese, and European. In addition to its physical benefits, hawthorn has also been traditionally used to support the emotional heart, providing protection during times of loss and transition and helping to maintain healthy emotional boundaries.

Cultural and Medicinal Significance

Hawthorn has a long and storied history in traditional medicine. The plant has been revered as a heart tonic for centuries, dating back to the first century in ancient Rome, where it was used to support cardiac health. In addition to its physical uses, hawthorn has deep emotional and spiritual associations. It has been symbolically linked to love and protection, particularly during times of loss or emotional transition. The plant’s protective qualities are often invoked in folklore, where hawthorn trees are thought to ward off evil spirits and bring harmony.

Indigenous UsesVarious Indigenous groups, especially those in North America, have long utilized hawthorn for its health benefits. Some Native American tribes used hawthorn as a remedy for stomachaches, sexual weakness, and as a female tonic. Its use for strengthening the heart was widespread, and it remains a staple in herbal medicine today. In Israel, traditional Arab medicine has utilized hawthorn for heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. These broad applications across cultures highlight hawthorn's versatility and its long-standing role as a healing plant.

Modern Uses of Hawthorn

Hawthorn has a range of uses in modern herbalism and is especially valued for its ability to support cardiovascular health. The leaf and flower combination of hawthorn has been approved by Germany’s Commission E for the treatment of Class II heart disease, as defined by the New York Heart Association. This includes patients who experience slight limitations in physical activity, fatigue, palpitations, or anginal pain. For individuals dealing with mild heart issues, hawthorn has been shown to help improve circulation, reduce blood pressure, and regulate cholesterol levels.

In addition to its heart-supporting properties, hawthorn is also used to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and stress, offering emotional support during times of grief or change. It is often considered a soothing herb for the "emotional heart," providing comfort and resilience during times of emotional upheaval.

Scientific Research on Hawthorn

The therapeutic effects of hawthorn have been well-documented in modern scientific research. Studies have shown that hawthorn can improve circulation, lower blood pressure, and strengthen the heart muscle. One study published in Phytomedicine found that hawthorn extract improved exercise tolerance in patients with chronic heart failure, suggesting its potential as a supportive treatment for cardiac conditions (1).

Additionally, research conducted by the European Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology found that hawthorn’s flavonoid compounds have antioxidant properties that can help protect the heart from oxidative stress, which is a key factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases (2).

---

Adult Dose

• Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons of dried hawthorn leaves and flowers per cup of hot water. Drink 1-3 cups daily.

• Tincture: 1-2 mL of hawthorn tincture (1:5 ratio, 40% alcohol), taken 2-3 times daily.

• Capsules: Follow the manufacturer’s recommended dosage, typically 250-500 mg of hawthorn extract.

• 
  

Actions

Anti-inflammatory,Antioxidant,Astringent,Cardiactrophorestorative, Cardiotonic,Hypolipidemic,Hypotensive,Nervine,Vasodilator

Energy

Cooling(TCM), Warming (ayurveda

Safety:

Hawthorn is generally regarded as safe for most people when used in appropriate amounts. However, as it may lower blood pressure, individuals on blood pressure medication or those with hypotension should exercise caution. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid hawthorn, as its effects on these conditions have not been well-studied.

Since hawthorn may interact with certain medications, especially those related to the heart or blood pressure, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before incorporating hawthorn into your regimen, particularly if you are on prescription drugs.

---

References:

(Phytomedicine, "Hawthorn extract improves exercise tolerance in chronic heart failure," 2015.

• European Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology, "Antioxidant effects of hawthorn flavonoids in cardiovascular health," 2013.

  
  

---

Information offered on Achula and on this page is for educational purposes only. Achula makes neither medical claim, nor intends to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Women who are pregnant or nursing, and persons with known medical conditions, should consult their licensed healthcare provider before taking any herbal product. Links to external sites are for informational purposes only. Achula neither endorses them nor is in any way responsible for their content. Readers must do their own research concerning the safety and usage of any herbs or supplements.

tags:

Herbal medicine course

herbal school

wildpluk cursus

kruiden opleiding

geneeskrachtige planten

herborist

become a herbalist