Home
Licencing - Pricing/Terms
Health Guides
A-Z of Herbs
Expert Panel
Ask an Expert
BMI Calculator
Products
Architecture
Project Management
Site Management
Marketing
Web Design
Doctors
Dentists
Pharmacists
Optometrists
Physios
How to contact us
Your New Zealand
Web Site Directory |
|
|
All articles are commissioned by and represent the sole copyright of, The Health Network Company (NZ) Ltd. Reproduction, duplication and/or transfer by any means electronic or otherwise is strictly prohibited. Breach of copyright will be pursued to the full extent of any applicable laws. Disclaimer If you are concerned about your health or treatment, always see your own doctor.
These health guides are no substitute for proper diagnosis and treatment from your own health professional.
Hawthorn
|
Crataegus oxycanthus
This is a familiar shrub found commonly growing as a hedgerow. The flowers can be used to flavour wines and summertime drinks. The berries are most often used.
Hawthorn has positive effects on the cardiovascular system, because of the presence of flavonoids.
When ingested, hawthorn seems able to dilate the blood vessels, especially the coronary arteries; this may then help to lower the blood pressure and reduce angina. It is said to improve blood circulation, thus it is often taken as a heart tonic, for the treatment of certain types of hypertension, arteriosclerosis, high cholesterol levels and high blood lipid level.
Chinese herbalists use another variety of hwathorn, C.pinnatifida, as a digestive aids. It has antibacterial properties, and is a circulatory, uterine and digestive stimulant.Hawthorn berries are taken raw for circulatory disorders, and the baked fruit is taken for digestive conditions. It can relieve food stagnation and counteract fatty food and stimulate the appetite. It is also effective for the relief of diarrhoea and dysentery and for pain related to hernia.
Hawthorn berries decoction is useful in relieving a sore throat.Taking the tea of the berries helps those who experience menopausal symptoms, such as stress and hot flushes. A decoction of the dried flowers and berries can be used as a facial lotion to clear the skin and improve the complexion.
References
- Tierra M.The Way of Herbs. New York. Pocket Books. 1990.
- Black P. The Illustrated Herbal. Hamlyn. 1987
- Boxer A, Black P.The herb Book. Reed International Books Limited. 1980.
- Burch E (N.D.).The Complete Herbal Companion.Harper Collins 2000
- L’Orang D.The Herbal Healing Secrets of the Orient.Prentice Hall 1998
- Tierra M.The ways of Chinese Herbs.Pocket Books. 1998.
- Liu HC.Chinese System of Food Cures.Pelandok Publication.1989.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD, Hsu CS, PhD. Commonly Used Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute, 1980.
- Dr.Hong YH, PhD. How to Treat Yourself with Chinese Herbs.Oriental Healing Arts Institute. 1993.
- Murray M, Pizzorno J.The Encyclopaedia of Natural Medicines. Prima Pub. 1998.
- Tierra L.The Herbs of Life.Freedom, CA. Crossing Press. 1992.
- Dr.Walker M.Olive leaf extract. Kensington books. 1997
- Kloss J, Promise M.Back to Eden, revised version. Mass Market Paperback. 1989.
- Prevention Magazine (editors).The complete book of natural & medicinal cures. Health books. Berkley Publishing Group, 1996.
|
|
|
