Hawthorn Tea

What is hawthorn tea

Although hawthorn tea can be prepared from the dried berries, leaves, or flowers of hawthorn grown in the temperate regions of Asia, Europe, and America, hawthorn berry tea is the most popular one. A potential remedy for cardiovascular disorders, it has several other medicinal benefits owing to its antioxidant, mineral and vitamin content.

Hawthorn Tea

Hawthorn Tea

History and origin

Due to the positive effects of the hawthorn berry on the heart, it was extensively used by the Native Americans and ancient Greeks for the treatment of several cardiac diseases. Apart from boosting appetite, increasing blood circulation, and alleviating abdominal illnesses, its diuretic properties were believed to help in treating bladder and kidney disorders.

Hawthorn berry tea health benefits: What is it good for

Heart health

The antioxidants in the tea are responsible for relaxing the heart muscles and blood vessels, improving the flow of blood as well as regulating the heartbeat, while its flavonoids strengthen the heart, helping in combating several cardiovascular ailments such as congestive heart failure, angina, and heart attack in addition to managing the blood pressure levels.

For atherosclerosis

Its ability to prevent the deposition of fats in the arteries, aid in boosting blood circulations, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, and maintaining the levels of cholesterol as well.

Hawthorn Berry Tea

Effects on the digestive system

A warm cup of hawthorn tea consumed after meals can be effective in dealing with digestion-related problems while also helping in breaking down fats and boosting digestion of fatty foods, thereby improving the appetite. Its astringent properties might be useful for diarrhea and dysentery.

For anxiety and insomnia

The calming effects of the herbal drink on the nervous system assist in reducing anxiety and tension, inducing sleep. Also, it is considered to be a beneficial remedy for fighting depression.

Hawthorn Dried Berries

Immunity

A good source of vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium, its intake is useful for building a strong immune system while its antioxidants are believed to minimize the risk of cancer.

For menopause

Intake of the herbal decoction might be beneficial for managing hot flashes experienced by women in their menopause, occurring as a part of ovarian ageing.

Including the herbal decoction in your weight loss diet might be useful in maintaining a healthy weight.

Hawthorn Tea Pictures

Hawthorne Tea

How to make hawthorn tea

• Pour a cup of boiling water into a teapot
• Add 1 teaspoon of dried hawthorn berries to the water
• Cover and let it steep for 8 to 10 minutes
• Strain the mixture
• Sweeten it with sugar or honey and drink

In a similar way, you can prepare the healthy drink with the dried leaves and flowers of hawthorn by boiling them in water for 15 minutes followed by steeping for about 15 to 30 minutes.

Note: The tea can be cooled and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Hawthorn Tea Images

Safety and precautions

Side effects

Limited intake of the tea is safe, but it might cause nausea, stomach upset, headache, and dizziness when taken in excess quantities. Although it is good for the heart, do not drink if you are on prescription drugs for any cardiac ailment.

During pregnancy

As there are no sufficient data to support the use of herbal infusion by pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers, it should be avoided in such cases.

Hawthorn Leaves

Hawthorn Flower

Where to buy

Hawthorn berry tea, hawthorn leaf tea, and hawthorn flower tea and their tea bags can be availed from any herbal tea shop or online retail store.

Hawthorn Leaf Tea