herbs - Hawthorn (Crataegus oxycantha)

What is it?

Hawthorn is a spiny tree or shrub that is native to Europe and Britain and is often seen as a hedge plant. The berries, leaves and flowers are used in herbal medicine.

Action

Hawthorn contains flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins and amines. The flavonoids comprise of proanthocyanidins and Quercetin, which are powerful Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that possess significant collagen stabilising properties, and are useful to blood vessels. Hawthorn is an excellent heart and cardiovascular tonic, as it improves circulation, strengthens heart muscle contractions and has a blood pressure lowering effect.

Uses

Our experts recommend Hawthorn for the following disorders:

• High blood pressure
• The healthy heart program

Other information

Research has used standardised extracts of Hawthorn to help with congestive heart failure. Herbalists also use it to treat sore throats and diarrhoea, and to help control the pain in angina. It is available as tablets, capsules or tincture. It can be used in tincture form for children aged above 3 years of age. Herb tincture dosage is lower than adult levels - a simple guide for children is one drop per stone of weight.

Cautions

• Hawthorn is a very safe herb and can be taken for long periods without any side effects and is regarded as being fine for use in pregnancy and when breast-feeding.



• If you are already using heart medications eg digoxin, please consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using Hawthorn.



• When this article was written there were no other well-known negative drug interactions with Hawthorn.

This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk). The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.