Heart Health Hedgerow

Heart Health Hedgerow

One  of the official phytotherapeutic approaches to cardiovascular disease  in Germany and other European countries, Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna,  C. laevigata, C. spp.) has a long history in traditional herbalism for  its role in protecting the heart, with scientific backing.

In  herbal medicine, Hawthorn has also long been seen as a symbol of love  and the heart, and its traditional use as a tonic for the heart dates  back to first-century Roman times.

Hawthorn  is a dense shrub or small tree that is often used for making hedgerows  by western gardeners. There are a few main species used for their herbal  medicinal use, including Crataegus monogyna & C. laevigata.

As  Hawthornes are usually thorny and fairly low maintenance, they are also  useful in agroforestry as “living fences” and a number of garden  hybrids now exist which also makes them showier additions to the garden.

Today,  hundreds of scientific studies have backed Hawthorn’s traditional use,  and have reported it to strengthen the heart muscle, support a normal  heart rhythm, and provide protection throughout the cardiovascular  system.

Additionally, Hawthorn is showing promising results in improving exercise performance, anxiety and cognitive function.

Therapeutic  indications listed in the European Medicines Agency (EMA) monograph  include specifics as traditional herbal medicinal products for  circulatory disorders, mental stress, and to aid sleep.

Though  every part of the Hawthorn plant have been used for making medicine,  the berries are the most commonly used herbal medicine. The berries,  also called ‘haws’, are edible and used for making jams and syrups. The  Hawthorn leaves and petals are also consumed.

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**This  content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not  intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice  or treatment from a personal physician.  

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