Crataegus spp. is a large, thorny shrub or small tree with stems and trunks that consist of hard wood and gray bark. A member of the Rosaceae family, hawthorn bears tri-lobed leaves and white flowers characteristic to other genera in the rose family. The flowers ripen into bright red berries which are carefully harvested, avoiding the many sharp thorns that protrude from the shrub’s branches. Sometimes spelled hawthorne, the berries are often picked fully ripe in autumn before the first frost.
Hawthorn has a long history of use in traditional Western herbalism as well as in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is well-loved for its affinity for the heart and is believed to uplift and strengthen both the physical and emotional heart. Hawthorn supports healthy circulation and cardiovascular functioning.*
Hawthorn has been employed since the Middle Ages, with some accounts going back as far as the first century to Greek herbalist, Dioscorides. The dark red berries have a history of use as an ingredient in jams, wines, cordials, and candies. Additionally, the tree is surrounded by legends with many folktales and magical myths surrounding it. Hawthorn was considered "sacred tree medicine" to the ancient Druids and was said to house fairies. Hawthorn twigs and flowers were incorporated in the marriage wreath symbolizing chastity and insuring prosperity at Greek weddings. In Ireland, couples would dance around hawthorn at marriage ceremonies and sprigs were attached to newborn's cradles to protect them from evil. Hawthorn was even used to decorate the maypole for the seasonal May Day or Beltane ceremonies.
Hawthorn berry extract is both sweet and sour in taste and slightly warming. The extract can be taken alone either in water or juice or incorporated into personalized formulations. Hawthorn tincture blends well with motherwort extract, oats extract, and St. John’s wort extract. Hawthorn extract makes a fine addition to herbal teas such as berry bramble tea or love tea.
Ingredients
Organic alcohol, water, and fresh hawthorn berry.
Packaging & Shipping
• 1 oz., 2 oz., and 4 oz. extracts come in amber glass bottles with a dropper.
• 8 oz. and 16 oz. sizes come in amber glass bottles with a plastic screw cap and do not include a dropper.
• 32 oz. extracts come in plastic bottles with a plastic screw cap.
Precautions
No known precautions. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
*This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only.
