Hawthorn For The Heart
Much of this site’s focus is on foods that lower cholesterol. However, in keeping with the natural theme of this site, let’s discuss a popular herb that can benefit the health of your heart. The herb we’ll be discussing is Hawthorn. Hawthorn belongs to the Rose family of plants. It is an attractive plant that grows as high as nine meters tall, with strongly scented white flowers. The plant has a history of being used as a medicine for over 2000 years, to help reduce the symptoms and signs of mild congestive heart failure.
The medically beneficial compounds are derived from most of the parts of the Hawthorn plant. The flowers, berries and leads are all utilized, because they contain considerable amounts of oligomeric procyanidins and flavonoids. Hawthorn has a reputation as being a powerful, natural tonic for the heart. It is able to improve the ability of the heart to pump, to increase the energy supply to the heart and to dilate blood vessels. In addition, Hawthorn extract can decrease recovery time after a heart attack; it does this by increasing the flow of oxygen to the heart and strengthening the heart muscle. It also blocks enzymes which can cause the heart muscle to become weak.
Hawthorn has the unique ability to improve the circulation of blood, to regulate blood pressure and to reduce levels of cholesterol. It can also help to preserve collagen, which is a part of our bodies connective tissue. This makes it a benefit to those suffering from soft tissue disorders, arthritis or other conditions of the joints. Because it contains antioxidants, it can help to protect against free radical damage – and Hawthorn may benefit those suffering from insomnia due to its mild anxiolytic effects. It may also benefit those suffering from heavy menstruation and kidney stones.
Hawthorn extract is best utilized by taking it for a course of one to two months. Results are not usually seen before that period of time ends. The dose is between 600 mg in 1800 mg two or three times per day, if it is being used as an extract. If the fresh plant is being taken, the dose is between 4 1/2 and 6 g per day. A few precautions apply: pregnant women should not use Hawthorn. Excessive doses may cause fatigue, dizziness, skin rash, hypotension, tremors and cardiac arrhythmias. It is generally a safe herb to use, as long as common sense and normal dosing guidelines are followed.
Consider adding Hawthorn to your natural heart health regime.