The hawthorn plant is part of the rose family and goes by a few different names - thorn apple, May-tree and is also know as the ‘heart herb’.  The nickname ‘heart herb’ gives you some indication to its benefits. Hawthorn has been used for many years as cardiotonic. The leaves, berries and flowers are all used for medicinal purposes. 

How Hawthorn berry can help with the below 

The most well know benefit of hawthorn is it’s use when it come to congestive heart failure. There have been many studies done showing a positive effect on improving the symptoms associated with heart failure when taken alongside medications. One study showed it to even reduce the risk of sudden heart related death. 

Angina - Hawthorn contains a flavonoid called proanthocyanidin which has been shown to have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. It reduces tension and helps dilate the peripheral and coronary blood vessel walls which improves blood flow to and from the heart. 

Reduce inflammation - Hawthorn berries are full on antioxidants, and antioxidants are excellent in combating free radical damage in our body. Free radicals cause oxidative stress in our body which leads to inflammation. Inflammation is the cause of many diseases, so it’s important to keep the levels down.

Helps lower blood pressure - some studies have shown hawthorn to have the ability to help lower blood pressure. 

Decrease blood fats - Some studies have shown hawthorn to have the ability to lower blood fat levels. When the levels of fat in our blood get too high it can lead to a build up of plaque in the blood vessels which can limit the flow of oxygen rich blood to the organs.  

NOTE : If you are considering trying a Hawthorn supplement - speak to your doctor first as it can interact with other medications you might be taking. It is not recommend for breastfeeding or pregnant woman and shouldn't be given to children. It’s recommended for short term use by adults.