The ancients linked hawthorn to love and marriage, but never used the plant as an herb because the flowers had an unpleasant smell. However, American pioneers used hawthorn berries to treat heart disease, a use that continues today.

Infusions or tinctures made from berries.

• Heart stimulant
• Normalizes heart palpitations
• Treats heart failure and weakness
• May help dilate coronary arteries
• Eases pain of angina

 

Although hawthorn improves heart function, it should not be used limiting angina attacks. Still, many doctors in Germany prescribe hawthorn-based heart medications.

 

Hawthorn should only be taken by those people diagnosed with angina, cardiac arrythmias, or congestive heart failure. Always seek the advice of your health-care practitioner before beginning hawthorn treatment.