Description
Hawthorn has always been known as the heart plant. The leaves and flowers contain a mixture of different flavonoids, powerful antioxidants and “scavengers” of free radicals, useful in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and to fight cholesterol.
These active ingredients confer a marked cardioprotective activity, because they induce the dilation of the coronary arteries that carry blood to the heart, thus improving the flow of blood with a consequent reduction in blood pressure. Its use is therefore indicated in cases of mild or moderate hypertension, especially if of nervous origin.
It has cardiotonic properties due to the presence of proanthocyanidols, which act on the one hand on the strengthening of the contractile force of the heart; and on the other hand on changes in heart function. These components reduce tachycardia, extrasystole and arrhythmias and prevent complications in elderly patients, at risk of angina pectoris or heart attack, suffering from influenza or pneumonia.
Vitexin, an active ingredient present in hawthorn, acts as a natural spasmolytic, sedative and anxiolytic. This sedative and relaxing action is especially useful in very nervous patients, in which it reduces emotionality, in states of anxiety, agitation, distress, and in case of insomnia.
