Each spring we head out to nearby old farms and neglected pastures that have become overgrown with wild hawthorne trees, patches of dark green nettles, thorny brambles and the occasional ancient apple tree that still bears a cloud of fragrant blossoms in spring. It is the hawthorne leaf and not-quite-open flowers we seek on these ventures. Come early autumn we will return with our baskets to gather the red berries!

Hawthorne berries, leaf and flowers are prepared as fresh plant extracts ( spring and fall) that are then blended together to create a final product that holds the gifts of this well-known tree. Some years the trees do not produce berries, so we turn to other wildcrafters for their fresh or dried berries.

Hawthorne strengthens and nourishes the heart, increasing the quality of circulation, including to the heart. Rich in flavonoids and glycosides, Hawthorne is considered a safe botanical that calms the nervous system, quieting and steadying the heart. Hawthorne is best taken over a period of time for its tonic effects, 3 months or longer.  

Caution:  If you have serious heart disease or are taking cardiac medications, consult a qualified expert before using this product.

Continue reading