Hawthorn

(Crataegus oxycantha) Part used: Fruit. Properties: Tonic, antispasmodic, astringent, diuretic, sedative. What it affects: Heart, circulation, nerves and kidneys.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 5-15 min. Take 1 cup 2-3 times daily. Decoction: Simmer 5-15 min. Take 6 oz. 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 15-30 drops (1/2 – 1 tsp.) 3 times daily. Fluid extract: Take 10-15 drops 3 times daily. Powder: Take 10 #0 capsules (60 grains) 3 times daily.

Purposes: This is the herb for the heart! Internally, hawthorn normalizes blood pressure by regulating heart action. It dilates the coronary blood vessels. Those are the ones that nourish the heart itself. Taking the herb over a period of time will generally lower blood pressure. (Keep in mind that a key factor in lowering blood pressure is drinking enough water every day!) But it normalizes blood pressure, helping to elevate low blood pressure. It helps rapid or arrhythmic heartbeat, inflammation of the heart muscle (myocarditis), arteriosclerosis, and nervous heart problems. It is good for heart muscles weakened by age. Taking it regularly strengthens the heart muscle. It helps prevent hardening of the arteries; it is excellent for feeble heart action, valvular insufficiency, and irregular pulse.

• Hawthorn tea is also for nervous conditions, particularly insomnia. A decoction of the berries is good for sore throats and acid conditions of the blood. American Indians used it to treat rheumatism. In china, it is used to aid digestion.