The mother tincture of hawthorn,obtained from the leaves and flowers of the Crataegus oxyacanta plant, has a cardiprotective and hypotensive action, useful in hypertension and states of anxiety. Let’s find out more.
Properties of hawthorn mother tincture
The leaves and flowers of hawthorn, Crataegus oxyacanta, contain a mixture of different flavonoids (1-2.5%), triterpenes (ursolic, crategolic, oleanolic acid), amines (phenethylanine, tiratin, choline, acetylcholine), phenolic acids, catechins, aminopurines,and traces of essential oils.
These active ingredients give the plant a marked cardioprotective activity, because they induce the dilation of the coronary arteries, which carry blood to the heart, thus improving blood flow, resulting in a reduction in blood pressure.
For internal use the mother tincture of hawthorn is indicated for regular functionality of the cardiovascular system, in cases of hypertension, mild or moderate; tachycardia, extrasystole and arrhythmias; and to prevent complications in elderly patients, at risk of angina pectoris or heart attack, suffering from influenza or pneumonia.
In addition, the hydroalcoholic extract of the plant acts as a spasmolytic, sedative and natural anxiolytic. This relaxing action is useful especially in very nervous patients, in whom it reduces emotionality, in states of anxiety, agitation, anguish, in case of insomnia and menopausal disorders.
Finally, the mother tincture of hawthorn has a vasoprotective and antisclerotic action, as it influences the metabolism of collagen, preventing its destruction. This property is useful for strengthening the walls of blood vessels and thereby preventing cardiovascular diseases.
Description of the plant
Hawthorn grows everywhere, from the plains to mountain areas in bushes and spots. Thorny and bushy shrub (5 m.) has a yellowish bark that darkens with age. The leaves have more or less marked lobes.
The flowers,gathered in corymbs, appear in spring, are small pinkish-white and very fragrant. The fruits are small red drupes with floury and tasteless pulp.
How to prepare the mother tincture of hawthorn
The “drug” (used part) corresponds to the leaves and or flowers, collected in the spring. The fresh plant is used, as it is dry and loses most of its properties.
The mother tincture of hawthorn is prepared with drug weight ratio: solvent of 1:10 and alcohol content of 65% vol.
Utilization
Mother tinctures have no contraindications except those of the plant itself, diluted in a little water can be given to everyone, the alcohol contained in them is thus diluted, so it is harmless.
It is not recommended in case of low blood pressure. If you take synthetic hypotensives,before taking it, it is good to consult your doctor.
Internal use: 40 drops in a little water three times a day between meals and in the evening before bedtime.
