What Is Hawthorn Berry (Crataegus laevigata)?
Hawthorn Berry is classified as a natural sedative. A sedative is a substance that can help support sleep and relaxation, by soothing irritability or calming down arousal. Hawthorn Berry has been relied on for that (and more) for over 2,000 years. The Hawthorn bush is part of the rose family. Native to the Mediterranean region, it was the ancient Greeks’ herb of choice to help with sleep problems and nervousness. A popular folk remedy since then, these tiny red berries have also been used by Europeans to encourage circulation and help maintain the strength of the muscles of the heart. Hawthorn Berry may help encourage a sufficient blood flow to the heart – which has made it popular in America as an herb to help support heart health. Hawthorn Berries are extremely high in naturally occurring antioxidants, which may explain some of their health benefits. Antioxidants act as natural healing soldiers inside our bodies – seeking out unhealthy “free-radicals” and disarming them. Free radical
