Hawthorn Berries Tea: All You Need to Know

Some plants have very interesting medicinal properties. Hawthorn is a clear example: it is a shrub whose properties have multiple benefits for human health.

To obtain all its benefits, it is necessary to know in depth what hawthorn is and what it is used for since it should be taken with full knowledge to avoid unwanted effects.

Many cultures resort to the medicinal properties of plants to find natural remedies and cure diseases or to improve their health.

In this regard, hawthorn can be very effective if used correctly. To discover the properties of hawthorn, what it is used for, how to take it, and its side effects, we recommend that you continue reading this article.

Hawthorn Berries Tea and Its Properties

Hawthorn, also known as hawthorn or hawthorn buckthorn and whose scientific name is Crataegus monogyna, is a thorny shrub belonging to the Rosaceae family. Its origin is in the temperate zones of North America, Europe, and Asia.

However, it is also found in South American countries such as Argentina and Chile. This plant can reach a maximum height of 20 ft and stands out for its thorny branches, sawed and hairless leaves, white flowers, and small, sweet, red berries that can be consumed in different recipes such as jams, candies, jellies, and wines. In addition, all parts of the hawthorn contain compounds with medicinal properties.

This plant has a significant amount of antioxidants that are associated with better diet quality and reduced cardiovascular risk.

• It contains antispasmodic and calming properties that contribute to fighting insomnia, anxiety, nervousness, and stress.
• It acts as an astringent thanks to the starch it contains, so it can be used to combat digestive problems such as stomach pains, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• It contains flavonoids that improve blood circulation and help to stop some symptoms related to menopause.
• It is also a good anti-inflammatory and antibacterial.

Hawthorn Berries Tea Benefits

It strengthens the cardiovascular system thanks to a positive inotropic effect, that is, it strengthens the heartbeat. The plant extracts improve the activity of the muscles responsible for closing the mitral valve located in the left ventricle, thus decreasing the amount of blood flowing in the opposite direction inside the atrioventricular system.

The antioxidants it provides help prevent premature cellular aging, thus helping to prevent heart disease, as well as any other part of the body.

Hawthorn contains proanthocyanidins, molecules that induce the relaxation of blood vessels.

The plant acts as an anti-inflammatory thanks to the antioxidants it contains, acting on the levels of molecules such as interleukins or TNF-alpha factor, which are responsible for the inflammatory response.

Hawthorn has an anticholesterolemic and antilipemic action, which translates into a reduction in the levels of low-density lipids in the blood circulation, which helps regulate cholesterol.

It has an antiplatelet action due to its inhibition of phosphodiesterase-3, which can be found in platelet thrombi.

The bacteriostatic properties of hawthorn prevent the reproduction of bacteria, so it serves to combat some bacteria. These properties are marked on gram-positive bacteria, with a cell wall morphology that allows the action of some compounds of the plant on them.

Hawthorn Berry Tea Side Effects

Despite the many properties and benefits, it brings to the body, hawthorn has several contraindications. One of the most important is related to the heart, since if taken in conjunction with other drugs for cardiovascular diseases could cause counterproductive effects and even aggravate the condition.

Its consumption is not recommended during lactation or pregnancy. Similarly, if you are going to undergo an operation, you should not take it at least two weeks before because it can hinder blood clotting, posing a risk at the time of surgery because it increases the likelihood of bleeding.

If you’re looking for a special and unique flavor, check out our extraordinary selection of teas at Hummingbird Tearoom. Add any medicinal herb to one of our organic teas elaborated for your enjoyment and health.

No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinicians.