2005.
Awaiting revision 2007
CRATAEGUS LAEVIGATA - HAWTHORN
Hawthorn is a thorny tree
that thrives in hedgerows and fields in the temperate regions
of Europe and the British Isles. Its name originates from the
Greek word kratos meaning strength and refers to the nature
of the wood. Other names include white thorn and hogberry. It
blooms in May producing luscious red fruits and hence
receives one of its most popular names, May-blossom.
Folklore Hawthorn was regarded as a valuable
heart remedy as far back as the Middle Ages. The Hawthorn was considered sacred in early
times and believed to furnish the Crown of Thorns. Legend has it
that between AD30-63 Joseph of Aramathea came to England and
planted his hawthorn staff in Glastonbury soil. This became known
as the Glastonbury Thorn and grew and blossomed at
Christmas and Easter as if in celebration of the Christian Year.
The Celts used Hawthorn in May celebrations using it
to dress maypoles and symbolic effigies, and associated it with
fertility.
Uses of Hawthorn
Hawthorn's therapeutic actions come
from the berries, flowers and leaves. The total complex of plant
constituents is considered valuable as a remedy for those with
circulatory and cardiac problems.
It is believed to regulate and support these systems and be
beneficial to use in the following conditions:
- Angina - Believed to give relief from cramp-like
symptoms.
- Mild congestive heart failure - Believed to
increase cardiac output and increase the flow of blood
through the coronary arteries.
- Arrhythmia (irregular heart beat) - Thought to
counteract rhythm disturbances.
- High blood pressure - Believed to cause
vasodilatation of peripheral blood vessels and lower blood
pressure.
- Nervous Heart Disorders (palpitations) - Believed
to have a sedative effect on the nervous system which may
render it useful in heart conditions where the nerves are
involved.
- Heart Weakness - as caused by infectious diseases
e.g. pneumonia, scarlet fever and diphtheria. Is believed to
restore and support heart
function.
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It is also believed to encourage concentration and
memory function as it improves circulation of blood and
oxygen to the brain!
Dosage of Hawthorn
Tea: It is preferable to use a mixture of flowers
and leaves. If berries are used it is better to decoct than
diffuse. Use 2 teaspoons of herb per cup of boiling water. Infuse
for 20mins. Drink 2-3 cups daily.
Tincture: (1:5) 50-100 drops 3 x
daily
Fluid Extract: (1:1) 10-20 drops 3 x
daily
Capsules: (min 325mg) 1-2 capsules 3-6 x
daily. Or follow the instructions on any proprietary pack of
Hawthorn being used.
Cautions Hawthorn is considered to be a
non-toxic herb. It does not accumulate in the body as Digitalis
does. There are no apparent side effects and is not believed to
lead to dependence. Due to this Hawthorn is believed to be safe to use
over long periods.
Hawthorn is believed to possess
hypotensive action and as a result should be used with caution in
low blood pressure. Studies have shown the herb to decrease blood
pressure even further and in some instances cause fainting. Check
with your doctor before taking hawthorn if you are taking any
medication for blood pressure.
Summary Hawthorn is considered a valuable herb
for the heart and cardiovascular system. It may combine well
with Melissa and Lavender in nervous heart conditions. In
hypertension it may combine well with Lime Blossom, Yarrow
and Mistletoe. As long as it is avoided in low blood pressure
it can be taken with benefit by anyone who wants to support
the function of the heart.
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