Health, Green & Wellness
Hawthorn: Plant, Characteristics And Infusion
Introduction:
The white spindle, also known as spinobianco, is a plant belonging to the Rosaceae family. Its wood is highly polished when worked, but its popularity stems from its medicinal properties that we will soon discover.
What is White Spindle?
Within the Rosaceae family, there are various genera of plants, and white spindle belongs to Crataegus. There are several species, including Crataegus oxyacantha (or Crataegus laevigata) and Crataegus monogyna. Both are highly valued for their beauty and medicinal properties.
White Spindle can be found in mountainous regions where it grows naturally, and if well protected, can live up to 500 years. It is a perenn plant with an arbustive habit and reaches a maximum height of 5 meters. Its leaves have lobes that can be more or less pronounced, produce tiny pinkish flowers (almost white) in clusters, and has small red fruits with farinaceous pulp.
Properties of White Spindle:
Both the flowers and fruits, as well as the bark, can be used to exploit its properties. The flowers must be picked before they open, typically in spring, while the fruits are ready by September. The bark can only be used from younger branches starting from February.
The essential oil of this plant is rich in tannins and vitamins. It contains sugars, Vitamin C, oxalic acid, pigments, amines, terpenic derivatives, and has several properties that we’ll start listing briefly. It’s antidiarrheal, astringent, diuretic, tonic, febrifuge, hypotensive, sedative, and antispasmodic. It is essential to know its strong impact on the circulatory system before using it, so it is best taken under medical supervision.
Despite this, we can benefit from its effects, its cardioprotective activity, and antioxidant properties known for centuries, often referred to as “the plant of the heart.”
How White Spindle Works:
To prevent cardiovascular diseases and fight high cholesterol, both leaves and flowers are used because they contain a mix of various flavonoids that are antiossidants and counteract free radicals. These active principles cause dilation of coronary arteries, improving blood flow to the heart, thus lowering arterial pressure. The white spindle is therefore ideal for those suffering from hypertension, especially if it’s of nervous origin.
The presence of proantocianidols makes this plant also cardiotonic as these components help strengthen the heart’s contractility and act on cardiac function irregularities, reducing problems like tachycardia, extrasystoles, and arrhythmias. Additionally, they are useful for elderly people to prevent complications such as angina pectoris or myocardial infarction.
Another active principle worth mentioning is vitexina which has a natural spasmolytic, sedative, and anxiolytic effect. In this sense, white spindle becomes very useful also for those suffering from anxiety attacks, insomnia, or nerve problems.
How to Use White Spindle:
To utilize the properties of this plant, we can prepare an infusion or tincture, both useful in cases of hypertension, nervousness, and insomnia. A relaxing bath with white spindle is without a doubt soothing and sedating as well.
Making Infusion:
Let’s take a closer look at how to make an infusion from White Spindle, a relatively easy process that leverages the plant’s properties. Gather some mix of leaves and flowers of White Spindle, take a tablespoon rassolate spoonful and add it to boiling water, then turn off the stove. Let it infuse for 10 minutes covered up, then filter the infusion. We’re ready now to drink, especially recommended when you have palpitations, tachycardia, nervousness or high blood pressure. Drinking it before dinner can also help with hypertension. If instead we decide to sip it before going to sleep, it will help us relax and fall asleep.
Making Tincture Mother:
So, how do we use the mother tincture? It’s available in pharmacies that keep homeopathic products or herbal shops. Take 40 drops of water, so three times a day away from meals and at night before going to sleep. There shouldn’t be any side effects or contraindications, but we must avoid overusing it if you have low blood pressure.
Contraindications:
Although White Spindle is generally considered safe for use, there are some precautions that should be taken into consideration. People with certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure, kidney disease, or liver problems, may need to exercise caution when using this plant. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare provider before using White Spindle.
Benefits of White Spindle for Heart Health:
White Spindle is known for its heart-healthy properties, which can help prevent cardiovascular diseases and reduce the risk of heart attacks. The plant’s ability to dilate coronary arteries and improve blood flow to the heart makes it an effective remedy for hypertension and high cholesterol.
Antioxidant Properties:
The antioxidant properties of White Spindle are well-documented and play a crucial role in its potential health benefits. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Cardioprotective Activity:
White Spindle has been shown to have cardioprotective effects, meaning it helps protect the heart from damage. The plant’s ability to strengthen the heart’s contractility and reduce cardiac function irregularities makes it an effective remedy for conditions such as tachycardia, extrasystoles, and arrhythmias.
Stress Relief:
In addition to its heart-healthy properties, White Spindle is also known for its stress-relieving effects. The plant’s ability to dilate coronary arteries and improve blood flow to the heart can help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
Conclusion:
This article has explored the medicinal properties of White Spindle, which is also used for stress relief and heart health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- What are the health benefits of White Spindle?
White Spindle is antidiarrheal, astringent, diuretic, tonic, febrifuge, hypotensive, sedative, and antispasmodic. It also has antioxidant properties.
- Can anyone use White Spindle?
It is not recommended for individuals with low blood pressure without medical supervision.
- What are the different species of White Spindle?
There are two main species: Crataegus oxyacantha (or Crataegus laevigata) and Crataegus monogyna.
- How to use White Spindle for stress relief?
It can be consumed as an infusion or tincture, both useful in cases of hypertension, nervousness, and insomnia. Relaxing baths with the plant are also beneficial.
- What is the primary benefit of using White Spindle for heart health?
Its cardioprotective activity helps improve blood flow to the heart by reducing arterial pressure.
- Is it safe to consume White Spindle long-term?
There’s no documented information on long-term consumption, but recommended use under medical supervision is always a priority.
- Where can you find White Spindle?
It grows naturally in mountainous regions and can be purchased in herbal shops or pharmacies that carry homeopathic products.
- How to prepare the infusion of White Spindle?
Gather leaves and flowers, add 1 tablespoon rassolate spoonful to boiling water for 10 minutes, filter before drinking.
- Can I use White Spindle with other medications?
Consult your healthcare provider before using White Spindle with other medications or supplements.
- How long will it take to see the effects of White Spindle?
The effects of White Spindle may be noticeable within a few days to a week after consistent use.
- What is the recommended dosage for White Spindle?
The recommended dosage varies depending on individual needs, but typically ranges from 1-2 tablespoons per day.
- How can I prepare myself for using White Spindle?
Start by consulting with your healthcare provider and learning more about its potential benefits and side effects.
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