Hawthorn has a long reputation in both folk medicine and clinical medicine as a heart tonic. In Europe, hawthorn berry preparations are widely used by physicians in heart conditions, such as mild forms of angina. Hawthorn is safe to use for extended periods of time, according to European studies.
It supports the heart in several ways:
• Helps to improve the circulation of blood to the heart by dilating the blood vessels and relieving spasms of the arterial walls
• Helps to regulate the tone of blood vessel walls
• Helps in the maintenance of healthy blood pressure
• Helps in restoring a normal heart beat
• Helps relieve angina pain
• Increases the strength of heart contraction
• Increases coronary blood flow
• Reduces cholesterol levels and the size of existing atherosclerotic plaque
Many studies provide important evidence of hawthorn’s benefits in treating heart disease, particularly congestive heart failure which involves fatigue of the heart muscle, fluid buildup around the body, and shortness of breath after mild exertion.
Home preparation: infuse 2 teaspoonful flowers, crashed leaves, or fruits in 250ml boiling hot water for 20 minutes. Drink 2-3 cups daily.
Cautions and Side Effects
Do not take if you have an digoxin medication. If you have a cardiovascular condition, do not take regularly for more than a few weeks. Do not use if you have low blood pressure caused by heart valve problems. Large amounts may cause drowsiness, so do not drive.