Hawthorn is particularly effective in stimulating blood circulation and protecting against cardiovascular disorders, excessive blood pressure or sleep problems. Be careful, however, when you are fragile of the heart…
For the heart, blood circulation, tension, sleep… Hawthorn is miraculous! It is a thorny shrub with fragrant white or pink flowers in late spring. Present in our regions on the edges of woods and in hedges, this beautiful shrub with the botanical name Crataegus laevigata, belongs to the Rosaceae family. The whole plant has a therapeutic interest. The leaves, flowers and fruits contain flavonoids, and different acids and aromatic amines which it is interesting to take advantage of to fight against against blood pressure and moderate heart failure.
What are the benefits of hawthorn for the heart?
I’hawthorn regulates the heart rhythm, strengthens the contractions of the heart muscle and improves the oxygenation of the heart by facilitating the circulation of blood in the coronary arteries. The active substances of the plant have also shown a regulatory activity on blood pressure and on the reduction of the excitability of the nervous system. Its use is recommended against congestive disorders of menopause, palpitations, hot flashes, insomnia, irritability and ringing in the ears.
What are the benefits of hawthorn for tension?
The virtues of the hawthorn are valid as much to fight against a too high tension, as a too weak tension. It is its flavonoids that increase blood flow to the heart by dilating the coronary arteries. The action of the plant is however very slow to be felt, but continues for a long time, even after stopping treatment. “It takes time for the body to adapt to the properties of the plant before feeling the benefits”, specifies Amélie Mounier, naturopath in Vincennes. “It is recommended to do cures over several months until you feel the effects. As a reminder, a cure of plants : always over 21 days then take a break of 1 week before resuming a new cure of 21 days and so on… To be followed over several months but always according to the recommendations of a health professional” reminds the naturopath.
Is hawthorn effective against sore throat?
*Hawthorn fruits are astringent. It is possible to use them as a gargle in case of sore throat, indicates the naturopath. They must then be infused with a little honey (about 10g/L of water). Their virtue makes it possible to tighten the tissues and therefore gradually reduce inflammation and pain.”
Is it effective for better sleep?
“The sedative properties of hawthorn allow it to be used as an infusion, at the rate of one teaspoon for 1 small cup of 15 cl. Drink 30 minutes/1 hour before going to bed. For a more “sedative effect “, associate with hawthorn, valerian and passionflower which will fight against stress and insomnia”, says the naturopath.
Hawthorn is to be taken as an infusion at the rate of one to two teaspoons dried flowers or leaves in a cup of boiling water. Leave to infuse covered for 10-15 minutes. “Take one to three times a day, without meals, and never more than 21 days, warn the naturopath. For 6 weeks of cure, you must do 2 cures with a break of 1 week in between.
Hawthorn also exists in the form of a capsule or hydro-alcoholic extract or Hawthorn buds – the bud helps to reduce the level of stress and anxiety and acts on lowering blood pressure. For the dosage see the recommendations on the chosen product. The cure always remains 21 days, no more.
What are the precautions for use and contraindications of hawthorn?
“People with heart problems, even mild ones, should consult their doctor before following a hawthorn cure” recommends the naturopath. Finally, there is no known interaction between hawthorn and drugs intended to treat cardiovascular or heart problems. THE pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid consuming itin the absence of data on its safety for the baby.
What are the unwanted side effects of hawthorn?
Hawthorn does not appear to cause any adverse side effects. Only digestive disorders benign and transient were observed. “Sometimes it is possible to have bradycardia (drop in heart rate), or feel palpitations. In this case, two possibilities: reduce the dose or stop. But do not hesitate to consult a health professional” recommends the naturopath.
Thanks to Amélie Mounier, certified FENA naturopath, in Vincennes.