Apr

Spring, Erimitis and our Heart

April has started promisingly so we can organise a trip to Erimitis which is now lush and green. A plant worth noticing on our walk, both for its beautiful flowers and its valuable properties, is Hawthorn, Crataegus in Greek which derives from the ancient word “Κραταιός” (Krateos) meaning “Strong”. The plant is also known as May-Tree, Thorn apple, Bread and Cheese and White Thorn. Hawthorn can be anything from a small thorny shrub to a tall tree that can reach 10 meters in height. Its age can reach and exceed 400 years.

Hawthorn is famous for Heart Medicine. Its properties are precious for the Cardiovascular System, but also for the emotional heart that suffers when we get hurt or sad. The flowers, leaves and fruits contain chemical compounds that increase the blood flow to the heart, strengthening its function. It tones the arteries, improves the blood supply to the whole body and in formulas with other appropriate herbs, it can help normalize blood pressure. It prevents the buildup of fatty plaques and cholesterol on the artery walls and calms down palpitations and arrhythmias. It helps regulate cardiac rhythm and it can be used to treat angina. It relieves the feeling of oppression in the chest and the shortness of breath. It gives courage and strength to cope with the loss of loved ones and relieves sadness.

Hawthorn berries contain flavonoids, constituents famous for their antioxidant properties and Vitamin C.

Source : Eleni Christoforatou

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