Hawthorn ( Crataegus ), known for centuries as the “mother of the heart” , is a valuable medicinal plant. Its small, bright red fruits, called haws , appear in autumn and have always been used in herbal medicine to support the heart, promote relaxation, and aid digestion.
Benefits of hawthorn berries
Hawthorn berries are renowned for their benefits to cardiovascular and nervous system health.
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Heart and circulatory health : they promote the tone of blood vessels and support the circulatory system.
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Relaxation and sleep : as an infusion, they soothe agitation, reduce irritability and promote restful sleep.
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Digestive well-being : traditionally used to improve digestion and relieve discomfort.
👉 A hawthorn herbal tea , drunk regularly, supports the health of blood vessels and the circulatory system.
👉 A few months of consumption are enough to feel lasting effects.
When and how to harvest hawthorn fruits?
The red fruits of the hawthorn are harvested between September and November , depending on the region and the weather.
Signs that the fruit is ready to pick
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The berries are bright red, sometimes slightly orange.
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They become soft to the touch (unlike in summer when they remain hard).
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A slight chill improves their taste and makes them sweeter.
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When the birds show interest, it's the perfect time!
👉 Practical tip: pick the fruit in bunches, in dry and sunny weather, choosing only well-formed and undamaged haws.
Drying and preserving hawthorn fruits
To enjoy the benefits of hawthorn all year round , it is recommended to dry the fruits after harvesting.
Air drying
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Spread the fruit on a rack or tray in a single layer.
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Leave them in a dry, well-ventilated place, away from direct sunlight.
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Stir them daily to prevent moisture buildup.
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Duration: approximately 1 to 2 weeks.
Dehydration
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Place the fruit on the dehydrator trays.
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Set the temperature between 40 and 45°C to preserve the active ingredients.
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Allow to dry for 8 to 12 hours.
👉 Tip: cutting the fruit in half helps speed up the process.
Conservation
Once thoroughly dried, the fruit should be hard and brittle. Store them:
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In airtight glass jars,
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Or in kraft paper bags, protected from moisture and light.
When stored properly, hawthorn fruits retain their properties for 12 months .
How to use the red berries of the hawthorn?
Hawthorn berries can be eaten in different ways:
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As an herbal tea : an infusion of dried fruit for a comforting and soothing drink.
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In syrup form : ideal for a delicious and beneficial use.
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In jam or compote : to enjoy their sweet flavor.
👉 Hawthorn tea is particularly appreciated for supporting relaxation and cardiovascular health on a daily basis.
Contraindications and precautions for use
Hawthorn is generally well tolerated, but some precautions are important:
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Heart problems : Anyone suffering from heart problems, even mild ones, must consult their doctor before consuming hawthorn-based products.
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Children : the use of hawthorn should be avoided before the age of 12 .
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding : In the absence of evidence of safety, it is recommended not to use hawthorn during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
👉 As with any medicinal plant, hawthorn should be used responsibly, and as a complement to a healthy lifestyle.
Hawthorn, an age-old wellness ally
For millennia, hawthorn has held a prominent place in traditional European medicine. A symbol of strength and protection, it is considered a plant of longevity and balance.
By regularly incorporating hawthorn berries into your routine, you benefit from a valuable natural resource for your heart, relaxation, and overall well-being.
Source :
- Encyclopedia of Life and Health, Guide to Medicinal Plants , Dr. G. Pamplona-Roger
Under no circumstances should the information and advice offered on the MerveilleNature website be considered a substitute for a consultation or diagnosis made by a doctor or healthcare professional, who are the only ones able to properly assess your state of health.
