Other Names: Shan Zha, haw, hawthorn, hawkthorn, Crataegus, maybush, Hawthorn Fruit
Shan zha-hawthorn has been used for hundreds of years in tradition Chinese medicine. Herbalists believe it is mild and effective for improving digestion and reduce blood press.
Hawthorn tea has a long history in both folk medicine and clinical medicine as a heart tonic. The herb of the hawthorn plant is typically used to improve cardiovascular function, as it increases the supply of blood to the heart muscle, resulting in enhanced circulation throughout the body. It has been shown to help stabilize angina pectoris, as well as aiding recovery from heart attacks.
Hawthorn tea, when made from berries of the hawthorn plant, contain a variety of bioflavonoid-like complexes that appear to be primarily responsible for the cardiac actions. These components of the plant are astringent.
Hawthorn tea also seems to inhibit angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) and reduce production of the potent blood vessel-constricting substance angiotensin II. Hawthorn thus reduces resistance in arteries and improves extremity circulation. The bioflavonoids in hawthorn are potent antioxidants.
As such, Hawthorn is an effective and low-risk herb for those with coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, and hypertension.
Numerous double-blind clinical trials have confirmed hawthorn tea is beneficial for persons with serious heart conditions.
How to Drink
Dried hawthorn fruit could be used as tea. Steep 10-20g dried hawthorn slices with boiling water. Cool it down to about 60 degree C then mix the infusion with honey to get a better mouth-feel.