Hawthorn

(Crataegus laevigata or Crataegus oxyacantha)

Description…

Herbalists prescribe this herb as a mild heart tonic. It is reported to dilate the blood vessels, allowing the flow of blood through the arteries and lowering blood pressure.

Hawthorn is also believed to improve the strength of the heart muscle contraction and to eliminate arrhythmia. Some practitioners think hawthorn may have a calming effect on the nervous system, and it often used as a remedy for insomnia.

How It May Benefit You…

Take internally in conjunction with conventional medical treatment for:

• high blood pressure,
• clogged arteries,
• heart palpitations,
• angina,
• inflammation of the heart muscle.

Take internally for insomnia and nervous conditions.

Use as a gargle for sore throat.

Caution…

Taking large amounts of hawthorn may result in a dramatic drop in blood pressure, which in turn may cause you to feel faint.

Use hawthorn as a heart tonic only if you have been diagnosed with angina, cardiac arrhythmia, or heart failure. Do not practice self-diagnosis. Always take this under the supervision of your Doctor.

Take care using this herb if you are pregnant.

WARNING: Herbs should only be used under the supervision of an experienced herbalist or naturopath experienced in herbs.

Availability…

Hawthorn is available as liquid form, dried berries and leaves, capsules.