I have been journeying with the medicine of Hawthorn, as a part of an online course I am doing in Shamanic Herbalism. What is involved is a complete immersion into the medicine; reading, researching, drinking it in tea form, taking it in tincture form, growing it, sitting in meditation with the plant, drawing it, making medicine from it, and a number of other general introspections. The process takes place over 40 days, of which I am about halfway through. If you really want to understand a plant and its personality I highly recommend taking the time to explore and journey with it in this way.
Hawthorn, Crataegus monogyna, is a deciduous thorny bush from the Rose family that grows to about nine metres tall. Native to Europe, North Africa and Western Asia, and preferring cold temperate climates, the trees I have met in this area are really slow growing.
In the UK, Hawthorn is also known as the May tree, as it flowers in spring around the time of Beltaine, filling the air with the perfume of its sweet blossom. The blood-red haws (berries) that follow are beneficial for the circulatory system, helping both physical and emotional ailments of the heart. It was/is a most revered plant of the Druids and was often referred to as “the father of the heart”.
In Druidry and folk medicine tradition, the Hawthorn is associated with the world of the Fae (fairy) folk, and it has been said that when harvesting the leaves, flowers and berries of this sacred tree, it is most advisable to do so from hedgerows and groves where they are aplenty; for to take from a single tree would invoke the wrath of the fairies, who will hunt you down and make your life truly miserable! Naughty fairies!
It's (recorded) history of medicinal use dates back to first century Rome, as a cardiac tonic. Most information that I am aware of regarding its traditional use, however, comes from the United Kingdom, though there is also record of its application in Chinese medicine, where it is used to treat digestive stagnation, to stimulate the appetite, and relieve gas and bloating.
Hawthorn nourishes the heart by strengthening the muscles of the pericardium, improving circulation and normalising blood pressure and rhythm. It strengthens and heals blood vessels and arteries, improves the contractions of the heart, regulates the heart beat and overall helps the heart receive more nutrition. The medicine from its berries, flowers and leaves are specifically indicated in the treatment of Angina pectoris, Arteriosclerosis, Hypertension, Myocardial weakness, and in the prevention of Cardiovascular disease. It is considered a tonic and therefore safe to take for most people. It does, however, interact with cardiac glycoside digoxins and beta-locker medications, so seeking medical advice from a professional is recommended before taking this herb.
Personally, I am in love with Hawthorn. I have really felt my heart-centre ‘open up’ and feel more joy and happiness since journeying with and taking the medicine of Crataegus. I haven’t checked my blood pressure lately, but I reckon it’d be pretty hunky dory too :)
Blessed Be!