Description
Hawthorn leaf, flower, and berry have been praised over the centuries for their heart elevating properties. Believed to uplift and strengthen both the physical and emotional heart, hawthorn, as it supports healthy cardiovascular function, was also revered for ceremonial and spiritual purposes. The flavorful red berries have been used in candies, jams, jellies, wines, and cordials and are widely available in many forms as dietary supplements. Hawthorn supports healthy cardiovascular functioning. Presently, it is used to support the cardiovascular system as well, and in fact, in China, the berries are so popular that they are made into hawthorn candies that are similar to the 'fruit roll-ups' in the West."3 Hawthorn is considered a superior heart tonic by many herbalists 6,10 having a gentle restorative effect on the heart over time and being supportive in cases where there is nervous tension. 4,6 However, its effects on the heart are manifold. Many consider hawthorn to be transformational for the emotional or spiritual heart as well. 7,11 Herbalist Matthew Becker suggests that hawthorn is specifically helpful for woman with "broken hearts" i.e. for those " feeling wounded and hurt." 11 Often the flowers and leaves are made into floral essences to address these types of emotional issues. 7,11 Flavor Notes And Energetics Slightly warm energetically, being both sweet and sour in taste. 9 Herbal Actions cardiac, 1,4,6,7,10 diuretic, 1,10 tonic, 1 sedative, vasodilator 4 astringent, hypotensive, cardioprotective Uses And Preparations Dried leaf and flower as a tea or capsule; fresh or dried as a tincture. Dried berry as a tincture, tea, or encapsulated; can also be made into smoothies, punches, cordials or even made into a fresh juice.
