Hawthorn Berry For Swollen Ankles

The red berries of the shrubby hawthorn tree have an extensive history of use as a remedy in homeopathic medicine. Few scientific studies have specifically focused on hawthorn berries, the extract of which is available in capsules, tablets, teas and tinctures. Herbalists claim, however, that the berries contain key ingredients that relieve a wide range of conditions related to capillary health, including swollen ankles. As hawthorn berry preparations are not substitutes for conventional medical treatment, use them under a physician's care.

About Hawthorn

Indigenous to the sunny woodlands and pastures of Europe and Asia, the hawthorn tree, also known as quickset, whitethorn and May tree, grows to 25 feet tall. A member of the rose family, the tree bears dark green, lobed leaves, clusters of white flowers and red edible fruits or berries, all of which constitute the source of its medicinal value.

Swollen Ankles

There is a variety of reasons why you have swollen ankles. Ankles often swell for several weeks following an injury. Oral contraceptives and steroid medications may induce hormonal changes that cause fluid retention. Premenstrual tension, pregnancy and standing or sitting in a hot location may also affect your ankles. According to MayoClinic.com, more serious causes include blood clots in veins, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis and congestive heart failure. If, however, swelling continues for more than 48 hours, consult your doctor.

Benefits

Hawthorn berries contain active ingredients called anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins, antioxidants that herbalists claim help alleviate conditions that can lead to swollen ankles. These key phytonutrients appear to relieve secondary problems associated with high blood pressure, congestive heart failure and atherosclerosis, or cholesterol buildup on blood vessel walls. According to herbalist Charles W. Kane, author of the book "Herbal Medicine Trends and Traditions," anthocyanidins and proanthocyanidins strengthen blood vessel walls, lower blood pressure and help dissolve cholesterol deposits, helping to reduce pulmonary edema and edema of the extremities. A British study published in the June 1, 2003 issue of "The American Journal of Medicine" agrees that hawthorn berry extract works as an adjunctive treatment for at least one of the causes of swollen ankles -- chronic heart failure.

Considerations

Generally recognized as safe, hawthorn berry teas may cause nausea, stomach upset, dizziness, headache and heart palpitations. In large doses, hawthorn may cause a severe drop in blood pressure and fainting. Children and pregnant and lactating women should avoid use of hawthorn, unless supervised by a physician.