Crataegus monogyna (Rosaceae) is also known by the common names Hawthorn, Red Haw, Whitethorn, Maybush and Hedgethorn.
Botany, growth and habitat
Hawthorn belongs to the Rosaceae or Rose family, in the Almond subfamily of Amygdaloidea or the Apple group. Like most berries from the rose family, hawthorn will become a bit sweeter after the first frost and will remain on the branch well into winter. The fleshy fruit has a five-pointed star on the bottom next to the serrated leaves, which identifies the hawthorn fruit, five separate petals (when in bloom) and thorny branches. The berries come in different colors, such as black, blue, red or yellow. Beautiful small white or pink flowers show their colors in late spring and grow in large clusters that are irresistible to both native bees and other pollinators.
Hawthorn thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, but can tolerate drought-like conditions once conditions are established. It commonly grows as thorny shrubs or small trees in North America. Hawthorn cultivation is popular among city dwellers because they are tolerant of air pollution and grow well in villages, towns or along main roads and industrial estates.
History and tradition
Hawthorn is known to have been popular among female healers for its rose-embalmed beauty and feminine-like qualities that characterize most plants in the rose family. In 1695 it was recorded that an “anonymous healer”, known only as a female practitioner, used hawthorn berries to support heart health, but the origins of hawthorn use in European folk medicine of the Middle Ages are said to have been lost. After Dr. Jennings wrote about Hawthorne in 1896, its useful use spread to Europe, where its biochemical properties were explored.
Black Hawthorn has many ethnobotanical uses in British Columbia among the First Nations people. They used the thorns for fishing hooks, piercing ears, and examining skin blisters. The Latin nameCrataegus, comes from a Greek word meaning strength, probably because the wood itself is strong.
Modern applications
Today, herbal experts understand that in addition to pectin, hawthorn berries also contain flavonoids such as quercetin and rutin. Its slightly sweet, sour, and astringent nature supports a healthy, strong heart. Hawthorn promotes healthy blood circulation and in return can support heavy breathing, chest depression and coronary circulation. Western herbalists consider this herb a nutrient for the heart muscle and therefore label it as one heart troforerestorative and use it for long-term use in many tonic formulas. In this case, a smaller daily intake is popular for a longer period of time.
Chinese herbalists consider the berry essential in formulas that address food stagnation. These formulas most likely optimize the digestion of undigested proteins and fats.
Preparation
Hawthorn berry is usually used by tincture or a strong hot water infusion or decoction. However, fresh berries make delicious syrups, preserves, and even ice cream! The berries are rich in pectin when pulped and help add jams and jellies.
The hawthorn flower is most popular in Europe and is picked when the stamens are highest in pink pollen. Make sure our friendly pollinators indulge first!
[[ recipeID=recipe-9ls3i6gnb, title=Hawthorn Berry Syrup Recipe ]]
WishGarden Herbs formulas with hawthorn berry:
Lauren Ann Nichols-Sheffler attended the Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism and received her certification in Medical Herbalism. She owns it Blue yarrow herbs also known as Herbal Vice, an herbal product company that practices bioregional herbal medicine by growing plants and sourcing locally. Lauren loves educating and advocating for plant sustainability. She is the purchasing and sourcing manager for WishGarden Herbs.
For educational purposes only. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, or to sell any product.
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