The hawthorn, also known as hawthorn or by its scientific name Crataegus monogyna, is one of the most appreciated and versatile medicinal plants in European and world phytotherapy. Appreciated both for its ornamental beauty and for its notable benefits for cardiovascular health and the nervous system, hawthorn has been part of popular culture, natural medicine and gardening, standing out for its resistance, ease of cultivation and long tradition as a natural remedy.
This comprehensive guide addresses in maximum detail Botanical characteristics, phytochemical composition, medicinal properties, traditional and current uses, cultivation techniques, potential side effects and contraindications of hawthorn, integrating traditional experience with the most recent scientific findings, as well as practical recommendations for its safe and effective use in the garden and in everyday health.
Botanical characteristics and detailed description of hawthorn
Hawthorn belongs to the Rosaceae family, a plant group with high ornamental and medicinal value. Within the genus Crataegus More than 300 species and subspecies are recognized in the northern hemisphere, although Crataegus monogyna It is the most widespread and used for therapeutic purposes.
- Size and bearing: It can grow as a shrub or a small tree with a dense, highly branched, and thorny canopy. It typically grows between 2 and 6 meters tall, although in optimal conditions it can exceed 10 meters.
- Bark and branches: The bark is yellowish-grey in young specimens, darkening with age, and the branches are usually provided with long, robust thorns, which reinforces its usefulness as a defensive hedge or natural barrier.
- Sheets: They are deciduous, alternate, lobed (with between 3 and 7 well-marked lobes), deep green on the upper surface and paler on the underside, measuring between 2 and 6 centimetres in length and ending in a short petiole.
- Flowering: Hawthorn flowers from spring onwards, producing inflorescences in corymbs that group together 5 to 25 small, white or white-pink flowers, very aromatic, with 5 petals of about 6 mm and numerous pinkish or reddish stamens.
- Fruits: After flowering, it develops bright red, ovoid berries, approximately 1 centimeter in size. These fruits, known as pomes, can remain on the plant until winter and are highly prized by numerous bird species, which help disperse its seeds (zoochory).
Hawthorn grows wild on the edges of deciduous forests, hedges, riverbanks and open areas, preferring fresh, well-drained calcareous soils, although it stands out for its remarkable adaptability to varied environments and wide altitude ranges, from plains to mountainous areas of over 1.500 metres.
Geographical distribution and habitat of hawthorn
Hawthorn is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It is currently widely distributed in:
- Europe (from the Iberian Peninsula to the north and east of the continent).
- Mediterranean and temperate climate regions of Northwest Africa.
- Temperate and mountainous regions of western and central Asia.
- North American areas (where it was introduced and naturalized), and in areas of South America, Australia and New Zealand, both in the wild and as an ornamental plant.
It prefers forest edges, undergrowth, clearings, forest borders, hedgerows and roadsides and crop margins., where it forms part of shrub communities with other plants of similar size, contributing to local biodiversity and the maintenance of native species.
Taxonomy and similar species of the genus Crataegus
- Scientific name: Crataegus monogyna Jacq.
- Common synonyms: Hawthorn, hawthorn, arto (Aragon), arç blanc (Catalonia), hawthorn (English).
- Class: Magnoliopside
- Order: Rosales
- Family: Rosaceae
- Gender: Crataegus
There are various subspecies and related species in Europe and Asia, such as Crataegus laevigata, Crataegus Azarolus, Crataegus nigra (Hungarian hawthorn), which can be confused with Crataegus monogyna, although the latter is the most used in phytotherapy.
Traditional and modern uses of hawthorn: beyond ornamentation
Thanks to the strength of its wood, the presence of thorns and its easy adaptation, hawthorn has traditionally been valued for:
- Defensive hedges and natural barriers: Its thorny branches serve as a natural barrier to contain livestock and delimit fields, protecting crops and preventing the unwanted passage of animals and people.
- Reforestation and biodiversity conservation: It is one of the most widely used species for restoring roadsides and hedgerows, encouraging the presence of pollinating insects and birds.
- Ornamentation: There are hybrid varieties of great aesthetic value, such as Paul's Scarlet, with deep pink double flowers. It is ideal for gardens and public parks, both alone and in combination with other species.
- Food and traditional cuisine: The fruits and young leaves have been consumed in salads, jams, compotes, wines and liqueurs in many regions of Europe and Asia.
Currently, it is also used in organic gardening, sustainable agriculture, and beekeeping. It is a significant honey-producing plant, although the production of hawthorn monofloral honey is unusual due to its limited distribution.
Phytochemical composition and active ingredients of hawthorn
The spectrum of active ingredients responsible for hawthorn's therapeutic effects is extremely broad and diverse. The most notable are:
- Flavonoids: Hyperoside, vitexin, luteolin, rutin, quercetin, apigenin, rhamnoside, and spireoside. These are responsible for its antioxidant, vasodilatory, cardiotonic, and sedative properties.
- Oligomeric proanthocyanidins: Pycnogenols, leucoanthocyanidins, catechin, and epicatechin. They reinforce cardioprotective and antioxidant action.
- Pentacyclic triterpenic acids: Ursolic acid, crategolic acid, oleanolic acid, acantholic acid, and neotegolic acid. They contribute to anti-inflammatory and vascular protection.
- Other compounds: Phenolic amines (with cardiotonic and sedative action), phenyl-carboxylic acids (caffeic and chlorogenic), tannins, pectins, essential oils (anisic aldehyde), sterols, sesquiterpenes, aminopurines, vitamin C, anthocyanins and small amounts of essential oil.
This extraordinary phytochemical richness gives hawthorn very varied and synergistic therapeutic properties, which makes it unique in European natural medicine and other traditional cultures such as Chinese.
Medicinal properties of hawthorn confirmed by science
- Cardiotonic action: It increases cardiac muscle contractility and efficiency (positive inotropic effect), helps regulate heart rate (antiarrhythmic and negative chronotropic effect), promotes improved coronary circulation, and prevents mild to moderate heart failure. It is recommended for palpitations, nervous tachycardia, arrhythmias, extrasystoles, and as a support in post-infarction recovery.
- Coronary vasodilator and antihypertensive: It promotes the dilation of coronary and peripheral arteries, contributing to the smooth regulation of blood pressure, useful in mild to moderate hypertension, arteriosclerosis, and the prevention of strokes.
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory action: Its flavonoids and proanthocyanidins protect cardiovascular and brain cells from oxidative stress and prevent degenerative diseases.
- Antiplatelet agent: It inhibits platelet aggregation, reducing the risk of blood clot formation and improving blood flow (gentle and safe anticoagulant action).
- Sedative, anxiolytic and regulating action on the nervous system: Its calming effects on the central nervous system have been compared to those of valerian or benzodiazepines, and it is indicated to relieve insomnia, mild anxiety, nervousness, and nervous irritability.
- Diuretic and purifying properties: It facilitates the elimination of fluids and toxins, reducing water retention related to cardiovascular disorders and overweight.
- Muscle relaxant and antispasmodic: Effective for contractures and muscle pain caused by stress or intense sports activity, and also as an adjuvant for gastrointestinal spasms.
- Digestive and gastroprotective properties: Traditional use includes the relief of stomach discomfort, indigestion, and functional ulcers, especially when their origin is psychosomatic.
- Lipid-lowering: It has been shown to reduce levels of LDL cholesterol, triglycerides and phospholipids, as well as improve fatty liver degeneration in animal studies.
- Antiradical activity: Its neutralizing action on free radicals protects the heart, brain, pancreas, and liver from damage caused by hypoxia and other degenerative processes.
Specific benefits and therapeutic applications of hawthorn
Hawthorn is considered a reference natural remedy in phytotherapy for:
- Improve heart function: Strengthens cardiac function in people with mild insufficiency, palpitations, nervous arrhythmias, tachycardia, and recovery periods after cardiac events.
- Regulation of blood pressure: Its ability to dilate blood vessels contributes to the gentle reduction of blood pressure and the prevention of hypertensive crises.
- Cholesterol control and vascular protection: Its antioxidants prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, reduce plaque formation, and keep arterial walls healthy.
- Stroke prevention: It is recommended as a support to reduce the risk of angina and arteriosclerosis, as well as to improve coronary and cerebral irrigation.
- Relief from anxiety, stress and insomnia: Due to its calming effect, it is traditionally used in cases of insomnia, nervousness, prolonged stress, irritability, and psychosomatic disorders.
- Improved peripheral and coronary circulation: Hawthorn helps the heart pump more intensely and protects against ischemia.
- Relief from menopausal and digestive symptoms: It is useful for reducing hot flashes, palpitations, mood swings, and mild digestive discomfort associated with menopause.
- Support in cases of fluid retention: Due to its diuretic effect, it supports weight control and the elimination of mild bloating.
Its applications are not limited to the cardiovascular system, but They range from supporting the nervous system to improving digestion., being a comprehensive and versatile option for multiple mild and chronic conditions.
How to take hawthorn: administration methods and recommendations for use
- Infusion or decoction: They are prepared with dried leaves and flowers (approximately 1-2 teaspoons per cup). It is recommended to consume 1 to 3 cups daily.
- Mother tincture: Hydroalcoholic extract, 25 to 50 drops diluted in water, 2 to 3 times a day, according to professional instructions.
- Capsules or tablets: Standardized dry extract supplements, with standardized doses, useful for ensuring the quantity of active ingredients.
- Syrup: One tablespoon a day, useful for children (over 12 years old) or people with difficulties with other forms of consumption.
- Liquid or drop extract: Dosage between 15 and 50 drops mixed in water or juice, 2 to 3 times a day.
- Macerated in wine, liqueurs and jams: The fruits can be used in syrups, jellies or food products combined with other fruits.
- Relaxing baths: Dried flowers can be added to bath water to promote muscle and nerve relaxation.
It's fundamental Follow the recommendations of a qualified professional to identify the most appropriate form and dosage to individual needs, especially in cases of cardiovascular disease, pregnancy, breastfeeding or concomitant medication.
How to grow hawthorn in the garden: optimal climate, soil, and care
Hawthorn is a very resistant and easy to grow species., adapting well to both rural and urban gardens, as well as hedges, roadsides, and forest crops. To ensure optimal growth, keep the following in mind:
- Light: It prefers full sun locations, although it tolerates semi-shade in warm climates.
- Climate: It is very resistant to cold, frost, and wind, although it can suffer in very hot or dry climates. It is suitable for both Mediterranean regions and mountainous or humid inland areas.
- Ground: It tolerates poor soils, but prefers fertile, cool, well-drained soils with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Avoid overly compacted or waterlogged soils.
- Sewer system: Good drainage is essential to prevent root waterlogging. If the soil is clayey, add organic matter and materials that promote aeration.
- Humidity: It prefers moist soils but not overly wet. In dry areas, mulch is recommended to retain moisture.
Planting and propagating hawthorn
- By seed: Seed reproduction is slow due to the dormancy period; it can take 12 to 18 months for the seed to germinate. Cold stratification is recommended (keeping the seeds in the refrigerator for a couple of months before planting). Place the seed in a seedbed or directly in its final location, which should be well prepared and weed-free.
- By cuttings and root shoots: Faster and more reliable. Semi-woody cuttings planted in late spring or early fall can root within a few weeks.
- Multiplication by layering or division: In species and varieties that allow it, it is effective to divide large clumps or practice layering of low branches.
Basic care after planting
- Irrigation: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged during the first year. After that, it can withstand periods of drought, although watering in summer promotes growth and flowering.
- Subscriber: Add organic matter (compost or well-rotted manure) in late winter and spring to stimulate flowering and fruiting.
- Pruning: It is advisable to prune after flowering to maintain the shrub's shape, remove dead branches, encourage branching, and control its size, especially if used as a hedge.
- Plagues and diseases: It is very hardy, although aphids, mealybugs, and fungal diseases may occasionally appear. Preventative measures can be taken with good drainage and sanitary pruning.
- Padded: In areas with low humidity, place mulch around the trunk to maintain moisture and reduce water stress.
Fertilizing and watering tips for hawthorn
During the flowering and fruiting season (spring to summer), the subscriber becomes essential. Apply compost, worm castings, or complete organic fertilizers around the trunk, taking care not to damage the surface roots. Watering should be adjusted to the climate: in humid climates, rainwater will suffice; in dry summers, water deeply but space out every 10-15 days.
Avoid overwatering and stagnant water to prevent root diseases. In case of frost, protect young plants with mulch or cover the roots at the base.
Phytotherapeutic, culinary and cosmetic uses of hawthorn
In addition to its main therapeutic effect, Hawthorn has several practical uses:
- Modern phytotherapy: Active ingredients extracted from the flowering tops (leaves and flowers), fruits, and bark are used in pharmaceutical preparations and natural supplements to improve heart function, combat insomnia, stress, anxiety, and hypertension.
- Natural cosmetics: Flower extracts for hot springs and relaxing baths, essential oils for muscle relaxants and anti-stress products.
- Alimentation and drinks: The fruits are used in jams, syrups, wines, compotes, and jellies. The young leaves can be added to spring salads. Its use is common in traditional European cuisine and some Eastern recipes.
- Wood and energy use: The dense, heavy wood is used in crafts (tool handles, small carvings) and as fuel.
Ways of consumption and synergistic combinations with other plants
Hawthorn can be consumed alone or in synergy with other medicinal plants:
- Infusion with other plants: Combined with valerian, passionflower, chamomile, lemon balm or linden to enhance the sedative and anxiolytic effect.
- Cardiovascular combination: It can be mixed with garlic and olive leaves to enhance its antihypertensive and cardiovascular protective effects.
- In formulas for muscle relaxation: Associated with yarrow, linden, ginger, valerian and fennel.
Always consult with a specialist to avoid drug interactions or, in the case of chronic illnesses, to adapt the dosage to your specific needs.
Contraindications, warnings, and possible side effects of hawthorn
- Not recommended for: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under 12 years of age, people with a known allergy to rosacea, patients with severe bradycardia or cardiac conduction problems without medical supervision.
- Drug interactions: It may enhance the effect of digoxin-containing medications, antiarrhythmics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and antiplatelet agents. Consult your doctor if you are taking these drugs.
- Side effects: It is generally safe and well tolerated, although in rare cases it may cause mild digestive discomfort (nausea, diarrhea), sedation, dizziness, headache, hypotension, or allergic dermatological reactions.
- Caution in serious cardiac pathologies: Treatment with hawthorn should always be supervised in cases of advanced heart failure, and if any symptoms of edema, chest pain, or lack of improvement occur, discontinue use and consult a specialist immediately.
- Overdose: Although the risk is low, excessive amounts can cause cardiorespiratory depression, tremors, or heart rhythm disturbances.
It is always recommended to consult a healthcare professional before starting any long-term treatment or if you are taking medication for your heart, blood pressure, or central nervous system.
Scientific studies and endorsements of modern phytotherapy
The use of hawthorn is supported by numerous clinical studies and systematic reviews that attest to its efficacy and safety in mild heart failure, moderate hypertension, and cardiac and nerve rhythm disorders.
- Clinical trials: Several studies have shown that standardized extracts improve quality of life and exercise tolerance in patients with heart failure, reduce blood pressure, and offer antioxidant and antiplatelet effects at the cardiovascular level.
- Review of side effects: Studies confirm a minimal incidence of adverse reactions with regular use of hawthorn at therapeutic doses.
- Validation by official bodies: The European Medicines Agency (EMA), ESCOP, and the WHO recognize its uses as a cardiac tonic, mild anxiolytic, and blood pressure regulator.
Frequently asked questions about hawthorn
- What is hawthorn used for? It is a natural regulator of heart function, blood pressure, and the nervous system, useful for relieving palpitations, stress, anxiety, insomnia, and mild circulatory problems.
- How do you take hawthorn? It can be taken in infusions, capsules, liquid extract, tincture, or as an ingredient in herbal combinations. Dosages vary depending on the form of preparation and medical advice.
- Is hawthorn safe? Yes, it is very safe for healthy adults and with appropriate doses, although it should be avoided in pregnant women, nursing mothers, children under 12, and in combination with certain medications unless under medical supervision.
- Can hawthorn be planted in dry climates? Yes, although it requires regular watering at the beginning and mulching to maintain moisture.
- How long does it take for a hawthorn seed to germinate? Its germination is slow: it can take up to 18 months, so patience and cold stratification are key.
Tips for using hawthorn in your home and garden
- As a defensive hedge: Plant it in rows to form natural barriers, protect crops, and promote biodiversity in organic gardens.
- To boost health: Integrate these infusions into cardiovascular wellness routines, especially for people prone to stress, mild high blood pressure, or difficulty sleeping.
- As an ornamental plant: Take advantage of its spectacular spring blooms and the autumn color of its fruits to beautify your surroundings with low maintenance.
- In organic beekeeping: It is ideal for attracting bees and pollinators to the garden.
Hawthorn, a symbol of strength, resilience, and longevity, is a plant that stands out both for its ornamental and functional value and for its countless medicinal properties. Its versatility in cultivation, the diversity of its uses, and the safety of its applications make it an indispensable ally for those seeking natural alternatives that improve cardiovascular well-being, emotional balance, and the harmony of the family garden. Always consult a specialist to enjoy its benefits safely and effectively, and discover how the Crataegus monogyna can transform your health and your landscape.