Hawthorn is a member of the rose family. The leaves, flowers and berries of the shrub, indigenous to Europe, are widely used for medicinal purposes by herbalists across Europe. According to scientific studies the medicinal property of hawthorn is primarily because of its powerful antioxidant compounds. In home remedies, decoction of hawthorn berries, flowers and leaves is used to treat a number of illnesses. It is especially beneficial for the health of the heart. Studies have revealed various other medicinal uses of hawthorn that has increased its popularity worldwide. Furthermore, hawthorn is a safe herbal remedy, and side effects are rare.
Here Is A List Of The Top Health Benefits Of Hawthorn
Congestive Heart Failure
According to scientific studies, hawthorn is most effective for improving the symptoms of congestive heart failure. It helps in improving the function of the heart, thereby helping in alleviating the symptoms of heart failure such as shortness of breath, palpitation and weakness. Although the mechanism through which hawthorn helps in boosting the heart function is unclear, researchers speculate that the hawthorn compounds work by reducing oxidative stress and dilating the blood vessels.
Reduces High Blood Pressure
Hawthorn also benefits people suffering from hypertension. It aids relaxation of the blood vessels that helps in bringing down the blood pressure level naturally. According to a clinical trial, regular intake of 1200 mg of hawthorn extract daily helps in reducing the blood pressure level in people suffering from hypertension.
Relief From Angina
Decline in blood flow to the heart triggers angina or chest pain. By improving blood circulation, hawthorn helps in providing fast relief from angina. With regular use, hawthorn can also help in reducing the frequency of angina attacks.
Decreases Cholesterol Level
Hawthorn also helps in reducing the cholesterol level in the blood. The flowers and leaves contain compounds that inhibit cholesterol absorption in the liver. Hawthorn helps in increasing cholesterol excretion and negates the adverse effect of a high fat diet.
Reduces Risk of Coronary Artery Disease
The cholesterol lowering effect of the herb prevents cholesterol buildup in the arteries. The antioxidant compounds in hawthorn inhibit oxidation of the LDL cholesterol in the coronary arteries. Hence, hawthorn reduces formation of plaque in the arteries that leads to coronary artery disease.
Treats Irregular Heartbeat
The chronotropic effect of hawthorn makes it an ideal herbal remedy for arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat. Experimental studies have shown that the anti-arrhythmic activity of hawthorn extract is comparable to that of the conventional cardiac medications.
Anxiety Relief
Rapid heartbeat and tightness of chest are the common symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder. Hawthorn helps in relaxing the nerves, thereby providing relief from the symptoms of anxiety. Furthermore, the hypotensive effect of hawthorn helps in lowering blood pressure that rises during anxiety.
Improves Sleep
Hawthorn tea is an effective herbal remedy for insomnia. It helps your nervous system to relax, which helps in improving the quality of your sleep. By restoring the normal heart rhythm and improving circulation, hawthorn helps in reducing stress, thereby helping in promoting restful sleep.
Reduces Muscle Spasms
Hawthorn also acts as a muscle relaxant. It helps in carrying magnesium to the muscles, which helps the muscles to relax. If you are suffering from stiff muscle, consider drinking a cup of hawthorn berry tea once or twice a day.
Treats Intestinal Worms
Hawthorn is recommended in the folk medicines as a remedy for intestinal worms. According to a clinical trial, eating 1000 grams of fresh hawthorn berries or 250 grams of dried berries, divided into equal doses, throughout the day helps in killing and expelling the intestinal worms.
Improves Digestion
Hawthorn berries are also good for your digestive system. It is recommended for treating indigestion, especially following consumption of foods packed with fats. It works by helping in breaking down fats present in the food. It also helps in improving movement of food through the gastrointestinal tract. The fiber in the berries and leaves help in easing bowel movement.
Boosts Energy
Hawthorn tea is an excellent energy booster. The antioxidant rich berries help in reducing oxidative stress, which is a leading cause of fatigue and weakness. Furthermore, by boosting blood circulation and improving heart function, hawthorn helps in improving your energy level.
Fights Premature Aging
Packed with antioxidants, hawthorn berries can also help in slowing down the aging process. They help in neutralizing free radicals that are responsible for premature aging.
Strengthens Immune System
Hawthorn berries are good sources of vitamin C and flavonoids that help in strengthening the immune system. Consuming hawthorn berries helps in improving the activity of the white blood cells that protect you from infections.
Reduces Hot Flashes
Hot flashes can be alleviated with hawthorn berries. By nourishing the ovaries, the hawthorn berries help in improving the function of the ovaries in women going through menopause, thereby helping in reducing fluctuations in estrogen hormone.
Caution: Please use Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.
