Hawthorn is used in traditional medicine as a heart strengthening agent. All parts of the plant are non-toxic and suitable for consumption. You can use the fruits to make aromatic jams that enrich your menu in the winter months.
Is hawthorn poisonous?
Hawthorn is non-toxic for human consumption. Both the leaves, flowers and the orange-red fruits are edible and are used in traditional medicine for heart and circulatory problems. However, it is recommended that you consult a doctor or alternative practitioner before taking it.
The healing power of hawthorn
The flavonoids and procyanidins contained in the leaves and flowers of the thorny shrub interact with enzymes and receptor docking sites in the human body. Clinical studies demonstrate the effectiveness of hawthorn on the contraction force and stroke volume of the heart. Medicines containing hawthorn extract have been proven to improve blood flow to the coronary arteries.
The orange-red fruits of the hawthorn are edible. They contain the same ingredients as flowers and leaves, but in a lower concentration. The dried berries are used to support cardiac and circulatory function, for example in cases of low blood pressure.
Hawthorn as a gentle medicine?
The usual dosage forms of the natural medicine:
- dried leaves and flowers (tea preparation)
- Powdered and standardized into tablets, capsules or dragees
- as mother tincture or fresh plant juice
You can harvest the leaves and flowers in early spring when the tree is decorated with fragrant flower umbels. If the fruits turn tomato red at the end of September or beginning of October, you can pick them from the tree. Always wear gloves when carrying out this work, as the thorns of the hawthorn can cause painful skin injuries.
Although hawthorn has a gentle effect, you should always consult a doctor or alternative practitioner before taking it.
The fruits of the hawthorn
The slightly mealy berries of the hawthorn are edible. Mixed with other types of fruit, the fruit can be used to make delicious jams. The delicate bitter almond aroma of the berries gives the fruit spreads an exquisite note.
Tips & Tricks
The orange-red berries of the hawthorn are edible. In times of need they were ground and used as a flour substitute. The roasted seeds served as a coffee substitute.