Hawthorn
Hawthorn berries (Crataegus Laevigata), or “haws” as they are known colloquially, have a very long history of use as medicine and food in Europe, in fact it’s one of our oldest known medicinal plants. Dioscorides, the ancient Greek physician, was known to have prescribed them for heart conditions as far back as the first century, Native Americans used them for the same purpose, as have many others ever since. It’s a plant that is inextricably woven into the fabric of European mythology and fairy folklore. A 13th century Scottish poet and mystic is said to have met the fairy Queen next to a hawthorn bush where she took him to her world for a visit. When he returned the poet realised he had been gone for 7 years! Never mind the more esoteric annecdotes, in a very pragmatic sense, haws are an abundant, valuable and FREE source of nutrition and medicine. Haws are good at any time, but they are best, and contain much greater amounts of vitamin C, once they’ve started to wrinkle a bit.
- They are a veritable powerhouse of antioxidants which also enhance the antioxidant activity of other vitamins.
- Incredibly good for heart health by lowering blood pressure, improving circulation, strengthening blood vessels, combating atherosclerosis, increasing blood flow to the heart with enhanced flow of electrical signals through the heart cells, supporting a regular heatbeat.
- Immune boosting and helps to digest old food stuck in the gastro-intestinal tract, improving gut health and increasing the uptake of nutrients.
- Haws are a nervine with strong anti-inflammatory action and adaptogenic qualities, helping body and mind cope with physical or environmental causes of stress.
- Promotes excretion of salts through the urine and improves kidney function, relieving water retention, which aids weight loss.
- Contains anti-anxiolytic properties which help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Mild, opiate-like chemicals induce a dulling or numbing of the nervous excitation that accompanies anxiety attacks, so they can help with insomnia too.
- Can be used topically for skin problems such as psoriasis, old scars or acne.
- Eating or directly applying the berries to the scalp prevents hair loss and persistent thinning of the hair.
- Can be used for making jams and preserves instead of using apples or pectin.
- The flowers, leaves and berries can all be used in a variety of ways. The new, young leaves and flowers can be eaten in salads. The berries, leaves and flowers can be made into a tincture or dried and used as tea. The dried berries can also be powdered and added to smoothies etc….
*Please Note:
There is some disagreement regarding the contraindications mentioned in relation to using haws extracts (not berries) medicinally. Some say not to use them during pregnancy or lactation, and nor should they be used for children. Others believe they are fine for children and adults alike. There are also opposing opinions as to whether haws are safe to use if on prescription heart medication, with some not recommending it as it may affect the medication, others claim they have no adverse effects in that circumstance whatsoever.
Best to do thorough research and consult with your healthcare provider before adding any new herb or extract to your healthcare routine.
We do not attempt to diagnose or treat any medical condition, and we do not accept liability for any harm, loss or injury which may result from anyone choosing to act upon this information. We merely share how these valuable plant allies have been used throughout history and are still being used, successfully, today.
