Hawthorn Healing
We harvested some hawthorn last fall, over-growing along our fence line. Hacked up several branches and stripped it's leaves and berries for freeze drying.
Caution: some of their branches/stems have nice and sharp thorns that will catch you by surprise.
Thought it's prickly outside, this plant is loaded with antioxidant properties. It has a long history for aiding in digestive and cardiovascular health. And it's native to Washington State.
The antioxidants in hawthorn come primarily from its rich content of flavonoids, such as quercetin, oligomeric proanthocyanidins, and anthocyanins, along with vitamin C and other polyphenols.
It's also a miracle worker for combatting inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory Effects:
Its compounds reduce inflammation by inhibiting free radical-induced damage in tissues, which may help with chronic conditions linked to inflammation, such as arthritis.
And reducing that BAD cholesterol...
Cholesterol Management:
The plant may help reduce LDL (bad cholesterol) oxidation, a process that contributes to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries).
After we free-dried and jarred all of our harvest, we can add it to a variety of herbal teas for consumption.
