Hawthorn is a medicinal plant widely recognized for its soothing and cardioprotective properties. Used for centuries in phytotherapy, it is particularly prized for its effects on the nervous system and cardiovascular health. Find out in this FAQ the most frequently asked questions about this plant with its many virtues.
What are the health benefits of hawthorn?
Hawthorn is renowned for its many benefits for body and mind. Here are the main benefits:
Cardiovascular support: Hawthorn is reputed to regulate blood pressure, dilate blood vessels and improve circulation. It thus helps prevent disorders such as hypertension and heart palpitations.
Soothing, anti-stress effect: This plant has natural sedative properties, ideal for calming anxiety, reducing sleep disorders and easing nervous palpitations.
Improves quality of sleep: Thanks to its action on the central nervous system, hawthorn helps you fall asleep more quickly and enjoy a restful sleep, without feeling drowsy when you wake up.
Antioxidant effect: Rich in flavonoids and proanthocyanidins, it helps neutralize the free radicals responsible for cell ageing and protects the heart and arteries against the effects of oxidative stress.
Heart rhythm regulation: Hawthorn acts as a natural cardiac regulator, particularly useful for people suffering from tachycardia or extrasystoles.
How should hawthorn be eaten to reap its benefits?
Hawthorn can be consumed in a variety of ways to benefit from its therapeutic properties:
Infusion: Dried flowers and leaves are used to make a soothing herbal tea. Simply infuse 1 to 2 teaspoons of flowers in 200 ml of hot water for 10 minutes.
In capsules or tablets: For simplified, concentrated intake, hawthorn extracts are often offered as dietary supplements, at 300 to 900 mg per day, as required.
Mother tincture: Hydroalcoholic extracts are taken in a few drops diluted in water, several times a day, as recommended by a specialist.
As a dry or liquid extract: Presented as a glycerol macerate or fluid extract, this format enables rapid absorption by the body.
Does hawthorn have any contraindications or side effects?
Although hawthorn is a safe plant, it may present certain contraindications and side effects:
People undergoing cardiovascular treatment: Hawthorn may potentiate the effect of drugs such as beta-blockers, antihypertensives or anticoagulants. Medical advice is recommended.
Hypotension: In cases of low blood pressure, hawthorn may accentuate the hypotensive effect and cause dizziness.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Although hawthorn is natural, its effect on the foetus and infant is not well known. It is therefore preferable to avoid using hawthorn during pregnancy and while breast-feeding.
Rare side effects: In rare cases, hawthorn may cause mild digestive disorders, headaches or slight drowsiness.
How long does it take to feel the effects of hawthorn?
The effects of hawthorn vary according to the form of consumption and individual reaction. In general :
For anxiety and stress, the first effects are felt after a few days of regular use.
For sleep, taking it in the evening can improve sleep quality as early as the first week.
For the heart and blood circulation, a cure of at least three weeks is often necessary to see an improvement.
Can hawthorn be combined with other medicinal plants?
Hawthorn is often combined with other plants with complementary properties:
With passionflower or valerian: for a stronger calming effect and better management of stress and sleep disorders.
With ginseng or rhodiola: To balance hawthorn's relaxing effect while maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
With olive or garlic: For a beneficial synergy on cardiovascular health and blood pressure regulation.
Where to buy quality hawthorn?
It's essential to choose quality hawthorn if you want to reap its full benefits. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right product:
Choose organic and certified brands, which guarantee the absence of pesticides and an optimal concentration of active plant ingredients.
Opt for standardized extracts, indicating precise flavonoid titration for proven efficacy.
Check the origin of plants, giving preference to European producers who comply with strict cultivation and harvesting standards.
