I first learned about Hawthorne or Crategeous oxyacantha or mongyna from my botanical medicine teacher. She was lecturing on asthma and lung health specifically, about the lungs and grief ( Chinese doctors believe this connection as well) and how sad situations ( possibly heart break ) may bring on asthma attacks or difficulty breathing.
This I could empathize with. When I was 12, my absolutely best friend, my beloved 12 year old golden retriever, passed away. I was heart broken. And soon after my maternal grandmother passed away. Six months later, I was wheezing and in the doctors office. Inhalers were the path I ended up on but maybe a little dose of Hawthorne would have done much better for me.
The Heart of the Flower
You might think this flower would be red but it is a sweet scented flower with snow white blossoms. However, in the fall, red berries emerge allowing the flower to be even more majestic.
History: The Hawthorne plant has long been known as a sacred and protecting. Placing sprigs of Hawthorn around a baby’s cradle to protect against evil spirits and illnesses was well practiced. Hawthorn was also known to lift the spirits and relieve any sadness. Greeks wedding guests would bring sprigs of Hawthorne to gesture happiness, prosperity ( and fertility) to the newly married couple.
Herbal remedy: It is best known as a remedy for the heart. Mostly used as a heart tonic to open up the blood vessels and improve circulation ( blood flow to the body’s tissues). It is also a wonderful remedy for restlessness and insomnia as it relaxes the nervous system.
Homeopathy and flower essence: A gentle way to take the Hawthorne is with homeopathy or as a flower essence. And the flower essence is perfect for those who have broken hearts or if having difficulty receiving or giving love.
Hawthorn is the love herb … the heart herb for anyone needing to increase circulation, bring on more joy and love into their lives.
If you have any questions, please let me know. And remember, it is always important to speak with your doctor if you have any heart pain, palpitations, high blood pressure or any other possible heart symptoms before taking any type of supplement.
