Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)

Botanical Description

  • Family: Rosaceae (Rose family)
  • Common Names: Hawthorn, May Tree, Whitethorn, Quickthorn
  • Species Used:
    • Crataegus monogyna (Common Hawthorn)
    • Crataegus laevigata (Midland Hawthorn)
  • Parts Used: Berries, Leaves, Flowers, Bark
  • Habitat: Native to the UK and Isle of Man, commonly found in hedgerows, woodlands, and pastures.

Hawthorn is a well-known cardiovascular tonic and nervous system support herb, used for heart health, circulation, and stress relief in humans, horses, and dogs.

Constituents & Their Actions

1. Hawthorn Berries (Crataegus fructus)

  • Constituents:

    • Flavonoids (Quercetin, Vitexin, Hyperoside, Rutin) – Strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation.
    • Procyanidins & Anthocyanins – Antioxidant protection for the heart and blood vessels.
    • Tannins – Mild astringent properties, beneficial for digestion.
    • Triterpenes – Support immune function and heart health.

  • Primary Actions:

    • Cardiovascular Tonic – Improves circulation, heart function, and blood vessel health.
    • Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory – Protects the heart and supports tissue healing.
    • Mild Digestive Aid – Supports gut health and microbial balance.

  • Uses:

    • Equine & Canine: Supports heart function, stamina, and recovery from stress or illness.
2. Hawthorn Leaves & Flowers (Crataegus folium et flos)

  • Constituents:

    • Flavonoids & Polyphenols – Support vascular health and reduce inflammation.
    • Oligomeric Proanthocyanidins (OPCs) – Strengthen capillaries and veins.
    • Triterpenes & Essential Oils – Aid nervous system balance and stress relief.

  • Primary Actions:

    • Cardiotonic & Circulatory Stimulant – Supports blood flow, oxygenation, and stamina.
    • Calmative & Nervous System Support – Reduces anxiety and stress-related tension.
    • Mild Hypotensive (Blood Pressure Regulation) – Helps maintain stable blood pressure.

  • Uses:

    • Equine & Canine: Useful for older animals, performance horses, and nervous or anxious dogs.
3. Hawthorn Bark (Less Commonly Used)

  • Constituents:

    • Tannins – Astringent and supportive for digestive health.
    • Bitter Compounds – Stimulate digestion and circulation.

  • Primary Actions:

    • Mild Astringent – Useful for diarrhea and gut inflammation.
    • Circulatory Support – Less potent than berries and leaves but still beneficial.

Equine Use of Hawthorn

Benefits for Horses

Hawthorn is particularly beneficial for:

  1. Heart & Circulatory Support – Aids older horses, performance horses, and those recovering from illness.
  2. Stamina & Endurance – Improves blood flow and oxygenation, helping with fatigue and recovery.
  3. Metabolic & Laminitis Support – May help regulate blood sugar and circulation in hooves.
  4. Anxiety & Stress Relief – Reduces nervousness and tension, making it useful for high-strung or anxious horses.
⚠ Precautions
  • Avoid excessive doses in low-blood-pressure horses – Can further lower blood pressure.
  • May interact with heart medications – Consult a vet before using if the horse is on cardiac drugs.

Canine Use of Hawthorn

Benefits for Dogs

Hawthorn is commonly used for:

  1. Heart Health & Circulation – Beneficial for senior dogs with heart disease or circulatory issues.
  2. Joint & Mobility Support – Improves blood flow to muscles and joints, aiding arthritis and stiffness.
  3. Anxiety & Nervous System Support – Helps with stress, separation anxiety, and noise sensitivity.
  4. Metabolic & Aging Support – May stabilize blood sugar levels and support aging dogs.
⚠ Precautions
  • Monitor blood pressure – Avoid if the dog has low blood pressure.
  • May interact with heart medications – Consult a vet before use.

UK & Isle of Man Folklore of Hawthorn

Folklore & Historical Use

Hawthorn has deep roots in British and Manx folklore, associated with magic, protection, and fertility:

  • "Fairy Trees" – In the Isle of Man and UK, lone hawthorn trees were believed to house fairies and were never cut down.
  • May Day Symbolism – Hawthorn blossoms signified the arrival of spring and were used in Beltane celebrations.
  • Healing & Heart Protection – Manx herbalists used hawthorn as a remedy for heart ailments and circulation.
  • Protective Magic – Hawthorn was planted near homes to ward off evil spirits.
Symbolism & Mythology
  • Tree of the Heart – Associated with love, protection, and vitality.
  • Sacred to the Fae – Cutting down a hawthorn was believed to anger the fairies.
  • Good Fortune & Healing – Branches were hung above doors to bless the household.

Conclusion

Hawthorn is a powerful cardiovascular and nervous system herb, beneficial for heart health, circulation, and anxiety relief in humans, horses, and dogs. With deep roots in UK and Isle of Man folklore, it has long been revered as a protective and healing plant.

Calming

Digestion

Hooves

Inflamation

Mobility

Respiratory

Wellbeing

Guelder Rose/Cramp Bark (Viburnum opulus) Heartsease/Violet (Viola tricolor and Viola odorata)