1. A Thorny Little Shrub
Hawthorn is a small flowering shrub in the rose family which grows in most parts of the world. This thorny little bush produces small red berries; however, it is the flowers and leaves that are used for a number of natural remedies. Hawthorn extracts are available in liquid, capsule or tablet form and are extracted using both water and alcohol.
2. Anti-Aging Antioxidants
Hawthorn is a powerful antioxidant which helps to destroy free radicals in the body. Free radicals are naturally occurring molecules which cannot be avoided; however, their presence is increased by environmental pollutants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution, ultraviolet light, radiation and even some prescription and non-prescription medications. Free radicals enter the body, destroy healthy cells and damage genetic material, increasing the likelihood of cancer and speeding the natural aging process.
3. The Benefits of Flavanoids
The most beneficial ingredients found in hawthorn are flavanoids, which in themselves are antioxidants but also have anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, anti-cancer and anti-viral properties. Flavanoids are beneficial for many health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis, allergies, asthma, sinusitis and eczema. The high flavanoid content of hawthorn is thought to make the herb beneficial in the treatment of inflammatory kidney and digestive disorders.
4. Hawthorn Heals the Heart
Hawthorn has been called the best herb for heart health in Western herbalism. It has shown to help protect the heart by reducing bad cholesterol, preventing arteriosclerosis and controlling high blood pressure and hypertension. Additionally, studies have shown that hawthorn helps to increase blood flow, helping heart patients to exercise comfortably and reducing bouts of angina, or chest pain. Because hawthorn helps to regulate blood flow to the heart, it can also help to prevent irregular heart beat in times of stress or tension, helping to prevent cardiac arrest or undo stress to the heart muscle.
5. Take With Care
As with any remedy, you should discuss taking hawthorn with your doctor before self-medicating. The dosage amount and length of treatment will vary depending on your specific condition. Despite its many benefits, hawthorn does carry a risk for side effects, including upset stomach, dizziness, headaches or nausea, so if you experience any of these reactions, stop taking hawthorn and speak to your doctor. Additionally, hawthorn can interact with other medications, so tell your health care provider about all of your herbal, over-the-counter and prescription medications before beginning hawthorn supplements.
