Hawthorn is used in traditional medicine as a heart tonic. All parts of the plant are non-toxic and suitable for consumption. You can use the fruits to make aromatic jams that enrich the menu in the winter months.

The healing power of hawthorn

The flavonoids and procyanidins contained in the leaves and flowers of the thorny shrub interact with enzymes and docking points of receptors in the human body. Clinical studies show the effectiveness of hawthorn on the contractile force and stroke volume of the heart. Medicines with hawthorn extract have been shown to improve blood flow in the coronary arteries.

The orange-red fruits of the hawthorn are edible. They contain the same ingredients as flowers and leaves, but in a lower concentration. The dried berries are used to support the heart and circulatory system, for example in the case of low blood pressure.

Hawthorn as a gentle medicine?

The usual dosage forms of the natural medicine:

  • dried leaves and flowers (tea preparation)
  • Powdered and standardized in tablets, capsules or dragees
  • as mother tincture or fresh plant juice

You harvest leaves and flowers in early spring, when the tree is adorned with the fragrant umbels of flowers. If the fruits turn tomato red at the end of September or beginning of October, you can pick them from the tree. Always wear gloves when doing this work, as the hawthorn thorns can cause painful skin injuries.

Although hawthorn has a gentle effect, you should always consult a doctor or naturopath before taking it.

The fruits of the hawthorn

The somewhat mealy berries of the hawthorn are edible. Mixed with other types of fruit, delicious jams can be made from the fruits. The delicate bitter almond aroma of the berries gives the fruit spreads an exquisite touch.

tips and tricks

The orange-red berries of the hawthorn are edible. In times of need, they were ground and used as a substitute for flour. The roasted kernels served as a coffee substitute.

Category:

Vegetable garden