Natural Weight-Loss Herb — Hawthorn
In weight loss programs, Hawthorn berries help reduce water retention by expelling excess salt from the body. It’s important for tho
se consuming diets high in sodium.
Hawthorn, also known as whitethorn and mayflower, is a spiny tree or shrub indigenous to northern temperate zones of Europe, Asia, and North America. Ancient Greeks, Romans, and Native Americans all utilized hawthorn for its health-supportive capabilities. This herb, historically used both as a diuretic and as a treatment for kidney and bladder stones. Today, it is one of the most commonly prescribed heart remedies/herbs in Europe. Primary chemical constituents of this herb include Vitamin C, flavonoids (quercetin, quercetrin), glycosides, proanthocyanidins, anthocynaidins, saponins, tannins, and cratetegin (most prevalent in the flowers, then leaves, then berries).
Hawthorne Berries contain powerful antioxidants and natural bioflavonoids that support the health of the entire cardiovascular system. This herb can actually help regulate both high and low blood pressure, in addition to slowly breaking down cholesterol and fat deposits in the body.
BENEFITS OF HAWTHORN
Hawthorn is considered a potent tonic for the heart. This herb directly benefits the functioning of the heart. It improves blood flow through the heart arteries and increases strength of heart contractions. It can dilate blood vessels, increase the heart’s energy supply and improve its pumping ability. Hence, it helps prevent high blood pressure build up in the arteries.
Hawthorn has also a calming effect. They ease nervous tensions and tendencies as well as alleviate insomniaand. It is an effective sleeping aid for some people who suffer from insomnia.
Hawthorn can also preserve collagen – the protein that forms connective tissue -which is damaged in such diseases as arthritis. Collagen is the body’s most abundant protein and is responsible for maintaining the integrity of many parts of the body, including ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and arteries.
Caution:
In people who don’t have heart disease, large doses of hawthorn can cause very low blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness and fainting.