Family:Compositae Alias.

Synonyms:Hawthorne, haw, May bush, May tree, May blossom, mayflower, quickset, thorn-apple tree, whitethorn and Hawthorn.

Parts Used: Flowers, leaves and fruits (berries).

Active Compounds

The leaves, flowers, and berries of hawthorn contain a variety of bioflavonoid-like complexes that appear to be primarily responsible for the cardiac actions of the plant. Bioflavonoids found in Hawthorn include oligomeric procyanidins (OPCc), vitexin, quercetin, and hyperoside. The action of these compounds on the cardiovascular system has led to the development of leaf and flower extracts.

Medicinal Action and Uses

• Angina pectoris
• Atherosclerosis
• Congestive heart failure
• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Hawthorn is also a antispasmodic, cardiac, sedative, vasodilator.

This herb is very good when treating either high or low blood pressure by strengthening the action of the heart. Helps many blood pressure problems. The tea is good for nervous tension and sleeplessness.

Heart Disease: Hawthorn may help the heart in several ways. It may open (dilate) the coronary arteries, improving the heart’s blood supply. It may increase the heart’s pumping force. It may eliminate some types of heart-rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias). It may help limit the amount of cholesterol deposited on artery walls.