HAWTHORN

The Heart Tonic

The flowers, ripe berries, and leaves of this ornamental tree (Crataegus monogyna, C. laevigata) have been used since the 17^th century for heart problems. Modern herbalists consider it a tonic —a “cardiovascular trophorestorative,” says David Winston in his book Herbal Therapies and Supplements: A Scientific and Traditional Approach. He calls hawthorn safe preventive therapy for preserving a healthy cardiovascular system and a “mild but useful treatment for cardiovascular disease.”

In studies, hawthorn has reduced congestive heart failure and abnormal cardiac rhythms, stabilized angina, and mildly lowered blood pressure. Hawthorn is rich in antioxidants that protect cells from damage, as well as compounds called procyanidins that strengthen blood vessels.

HeartCare, by Nature’s Way, the formula used in many of the European studies, is widely available online for about $10 for 120 tablets. A tasty alternative is Hawthorn Solid Extract, a delicious mix of hawthorn and blueberry that’s lightly sweetened with apple juice. “Hawthorn is what I refer to as ‘food for the heart,’ and it’s one of my favorite tonics for strengthening the cardiovascular system,” says Winston, who developed the solid extract. Use 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of Hawthorn Solid in smoothies, stir it into your yogurt or oatmeal, spread it on toast-or eat it right off a spoon.

Tip: To be effective, hawthorn must be taken daily. Discuss it with your doctor if you’re taking digitalis-based medications, hypertensives, nitrates, or beta-blockers.