Hawthorn is often called “the heart herb” for its various cardio-protective abilities. Prized for its ability to uplift and strengthen the heart both emotionally and physically, the hawthorn berry has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for all kinds of serious heart conditions. Hawthorn berry is the fruit of various hawthorn bush fruit trees, a member of the Crataegus genus. These trees and shrubs are native to regions of Europe, Asia, and North America. Hawthorn berries are known for their small, red, or black fruit resembling miniature apples.
There are numerous health benefits of hawthorn berries. They are very nutritional packed with essential nutrients, including vitamin C and B-complex and minerals like potassium and magnesium. The active constituents include bioflavonoids, proanthocyanins and polyphenols. One of the most well-known benefits of hawthorn berry is its positive impact on the heart and cardiovascular disease. It has been shown to improve heart function and blood circulation, lower blood pressure, prevent congestive heart failure, and support healthy cholesterol levels. One of the ways through which hawthorn berry benefits heart health is its ability to lower blood pressure. This leads to improved blood flow and circulation, reducing strain on the heart. It also helps strengthen the heart muscle, enhancing its efficiency in pumping blood throughout the body. It improves oxygen availability to the muscle. It helps to lower LDL (the bad cholesterol) while increasing HDL (the good cholesterol).
Hawthorn berries are rich in antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. Its components, such as quercetin and rutin, neutralize free radicals, helping to maintain good cellular health.
Hawthorn berry has been used to ease stress and anxiety. By helping to relax blood vessels and reduce tension. There is a strong correlation between enhanced mental wellness and cardiac health.
Hawthorn berries have been used to support the digestive system and with irritable bowel because of its mild laxative effect, which helps to regulate bowel movements and overall gut health.
Hawthorn berries may be helpful in regulating blood sugar levels. Its compounds can enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce the risks of sugar spikes.
Hawthorn berries may help support metabolism and aid in weight loss. They contain bioactive compounds that help regulate appetite. They can help lead to a feeling of fullness and satiety, which can lead to caloric intake being reduced.
Hawthorn berry has been used to topically soothe skin conditions like acne and eczema because of its anti-inflammatory properties. It supports collagen synthesis and skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
Hawthorn berries can be incorporated daily through various forms such as teas, tinctures, capsules, or powders. Berries or dried flowers: 3 to 5 g of tea three times per day. Fluid extract 1 to 2 ml (1/4 to ½ tsp ) three times per day. Solid extract 250 to 500mg two times per day. I feel the best form is a Phyto cap. My personal favorite is Hawthorn Supreme from Gaia Herbs. Therapeutic range is 250-500 mg a day, so you can take two capsules a day with meals.
Mountain Rose Herbs has a great tea blend for the heart that includes organic hawthorn, organic lemon balm, organic rosehips, organic dandelion and many more herbs.
Hawthorn berry might cause drug interactions when taken with high blood pressure drugs. Hawthorn can interact with digoxin and phenylephrine 4.
If you are pregnant, please consult with a Naturopathic doctor before taking it.
Hawthorn berry is a remarkable botanical herb that offers a wide range of health benefits. Hawthorn is a parasympathetic herb that can help conserve energy by slowing one down and helping you to focus on one thing at a time. Hawthorn is like receiving a loving hug that is reassuring and letting you know that everything will be okay. This is an herb that I make sure I always have on hand.
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