Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) has been used for thousands of years in Asian, European and Indian cultures to treat most of the heart diseases. MedickForum found out what is the use of hawthorn and what are the contraindications for its use.

The use of hawthorn.

It is well known that herbalists in Europe recommended hawthorn specifically for the treatment of congestive heart failure since the 17th century. Today, numerous scientific studies have convincingly proved that hawthorn is an effective treatment for congestive heart failure, and this herb is widely used in Europe for the treatment of many cardiovascular diseases. For example, Commission E, an expert group in Germany that assesses the safety and efficacy of herbs, recommends hawthorn to treat congestive heart failure and irregular heart rhythm.

Hawthorn contains several proanthocyanidins and flavonoids, which increase the ability of the heart to pump blood and oxygen to all parts of the body, dilating the coronary vessels and strengthening the heart muscle. "Phytochemicals" contained in hawthorn also act as antioxidants, protecting blood vessels and other tissues from damage caused by oxidation. In addition, the hawthorn keeps the heart healthy by blocking the production of the enzyme converting angiotensin (ACE), an enzyme that causes high blood pressure.

Hawthorn was used to treat various heart diseases, including complicated angina (essentially "heart rheumatism"), atherosclerosis and hypertension. In the early stages of heart disease, hawthorn acts better than the digitalis, and with fewer side effects. However, hawthorn is intended only for people in the early stages of heart disease and does not act as quickly as some prescription drugs. Any type of heart disease should be evaluated and treated by a qualified cardiologist.

Some studies claim that hawthorn has a mild astringent effect - it can benefit those who have seborrhea, acne or other inflammatory changes in the skin.

Hawthorn fructifies with bright red edible fruits that look like tiny apples. They are often used for making fragrant jelly or wine. You can also dry the leaves and fruits of this plant to make home tea by adding 2 teaspoons of chopped leaves or fruits to 1 cup of boiling water, you can drink twice a day. You can also buy ready-made pharmacy supplements from hawthorn - the usual dosage - from two to three 450-milligram capsules or 1 teaspoon of liquid extract inside every day. Hawthorn is also available for sale as a tincture.

Contraindications to hawthorn intake.

Anyone with a serious heart disease should be under the care of a doctor. Some people may experience after taking hawthorn drugs or after eating berries, rash, nausea, fatigue or increased sweating. Hawthorn extract can be taken with virtually all prescription medicines, except for digitalis!.

But people taking drugs to lower blood pressure should beware - a large amount of hawthorn can enhance the effects of these antihypertensive drugs and cause a significant reduction in blood pressure. This suggests that people with low pressure should carefully apply the hawthorn and beware of too much lowering the pressure, which can lead to a crisis.

In addition, any use of medicines, even natural, should be agreed with the doctor. An incorrect approach to this issue can lead to serious consequences. People who have problems with the gastrointestinal tract should also use this substance with caution, since it can negatively affect the work of the organs and lead to an exacerbation of chronic diseases.

Source: News Yu.

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