Hawthorn – Crataegus monogyna
Hawthorn has the ability to regulate blood pressure naturally: it lowers high blood pressure and raises low blood pressure, without any side effects. This makes hawthorn the ideal plant for strengthening the aging heart, when older people already have to take several medications that have side effects.
Strength for the heart
Fields of application
The hawthorn contains a wide variety of different substances. Proanthocyanidins and chlorogenic acid probably play a particularly important role here, and together they are responsible for the unique mode of action. This is because the full effect only becomes apparent after several weeks of taking the hawthorn, but then with measurable success. The heart-strengthening effect, caused by dilation of the blood vessels and thus improved blood flow to the heart, is also referred to as positive inotropic. Numerous studies have also shown an increase in the heart's contractility and stroke volume. Positive effects on cardiac arrhythmias and improved coronary blood flow have also been documented. After prolonged use, better blood flow to the heart muscle and increased tolerance to a lack of oxygen can be observed. Hawthorn also helps with angina pectoris and protects against heart attack. Hawthorn extract has a calming effect on the nerves and helps with tachycardia. Today, it is generally recommended for the treatment of heart failure.
Botanical characteristics
The hawthorn is a valuable food plant for birds, mammals and insects. In autumn, the white or reddish flowers produce bright red, three-seeded false fruits. The hawthorn belongs to the rose family and thrives throughout Europe. It is extremely easy to care for and grows in almost all soils. Extracts are taken from the blossom, leaf and fruit, preferably over a long period of time.