More Detail Information common hawthorn extract

Crataegus monogyna, known as common hawthorn or single-seeded hawthorn, is a species of hawthorn native to Europe, northwest Africa and western Asia.

It has been introduced in many other parts of the world where it is an invasive weed.

Other common names include may, mayblossom, maythorn, quickthorn, whitethorn, motherdie, and haw.

This species is one of several that have been referred to as Crataegus oxyacantha, a name that has been rejected by the botanical community as too ambiguous.

Medicinal Use

Crataegus monogyna is one of the most common species used as the "hawthorn" of traditional herbalism, which is of considerable interest for treating cardiac insufficiency by evidence-based medicine.

The plant parts used medicinally are usually sprigs with both leaves and flowers, or alternatively the fruit.

Several species of Crataegus have both traditional and modern medicinal uses.

It is a good source of antioxidant phytochemicals,especially extracts of hawthorn leaves with flowers.

Other application

Common Hawthorn is extensively planted as a hedge plant, especially for agricultural use.

Its spines and close branching habit render it effectively stock and human proof with some basic maintenance.

The traditional practice of hedge laying is most commonly practised with this species.

It is a good fire wood which burns with a good heat and little smoke.

Numerous hybrids exist, some of which are used as garden shrubs.

The most widely used hybrid is C. × media (C. monogyna × C. laevigata), of which several cultivars are known, including the very popular 'Paul's Scarlet' with dark pink double flowers.

Other garden shrubs that have sometimes been suggested as possible hybrids involving the Common Hawthorn, include the Various-leaved Hawthorn of the Caucasus, which is only very occasionally found in parks and gardens.