Hawthorn Berries....

Hawthorne berries are also called thorn apple or  may tree. The berries, leaves & flowers are all used to improve health. They are tiny fruits that grow on trees & shrubs. These nutrient rich berries have a tart, tangy taste with a mild sweeetness. Many of these species are used to make bonsai trees!!

Often called the 'heart herb', these berries uplift & strengthen the heart. Been used for centuries for angina, high blood pressure, hardening of the arteries & irregular heart beat. They are loaded with anti-oxidants and a rich source of polyphenols & numerous flavanoids.

They have anti-inflammatory properties. Can act as a vasodilator -- can relax & open constricted blood vessels, ultimately lowering blood pressure. Ongoing research is promising in the reduction of cholesterol levels in the blood too.

The berries contain fiber & can act as a pre-biotic, both are vital to good digestion. 

They are best known for treating heart failure (where the heart can't properly pump blood). Studies have shown improvements in heart function & heart failure symptoms.

These berries are loaded with flavanoids, which are potent anti-oxidants, known to effectively decrease inflammation while boosting immune function. 

The health benefiting compounds can help improve blood flow, guard against blood vessel damage, helps to dilate blood vessels. Among the many beneficial chemical compounds found in these berries include quercetin, rutin, choline, Vit. B1, Vit B2, Vit C, calcium, iron, malic acid & minerals.

It's also an intestinal tonic which can reduce bloating & cramping while make the environment less 'friendly' for parasites.

It is very well known as a cardiotonic herb & is very beneficial for all sorts of heart concerns including heart disease, angina pectoris, artherosclerosis just to name a few. These powerful benefits come from it's high polyphenolic content. It can help with blood pressure, heart rate, cardiac output & exercise tolerance, high cholesterol, blood flow in general & anxiety.

Precautions: do NOT use if pregnant or breast feeding. Do NOT give to children. A noticeable improvement could take up to 12 weeks & is recommended for short term use in some cases. If you are taking beta blockers, digoxin, CCB'S (calcium channel blockers), nitrates or other heart meds, be sure to talk with your doctor before you start taking this.