Herbs - Hawthorn - Ailments / Situations Where Used

There is some controversy as to whether the berries or the blossoms are more potent. It is best to use them both.

This tree is one of the greatest heart and circulatory tonics known to date. It has a normalizing effect upon the heart -- either depressing or stimulating this vital organ as required. Hawthorn will, in most cases, effectively strengthen the heart and is used as a long term treatment for heart failure and weakness, palpitations, angina pectoris, rapid heartbeat, inflamed heart muscles and treats arteriosclerosis. It will also lower or raise blood pressure due to flavonoids in the plant that dilate the coronary and peripheral arteries.

Hawthorn is very balancing and promotes longevity. It helps treat varicose veins and varicose ulcers as it is very healing to most vessel troubles. Hawthorn needs to be used for some to really notice positive effects. It is also a mild sedative associated with constant mental thoughts and nervousness, and can be used as a mild diuretic.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the berries are used to remove congestion of accumulated food masses in over-eating and poor digestion. They stimulate the appetite, release abdominal pain and aid in the digestion of meat. The berries are also a good source of vitamin C.