In the quest for a healthy heart, nature often provides timeless solutions, and one such gem is hawthorn. For centuries, the hawthorn plant has been revered for its properties in supporting cardiovascular health. Who would have thought that the humble hawthorn—which can most likely be found growing in your neighborhood—can be harnessed to brew a delicious tea that not only warms the body but also supports the heart?
“In the quest for a healthy heart, nature often provides timeless solutions, and one such gem is hawthorn.”
Discover the comforting and joyful benefits of hawthorn tea—a simple drink that I often craft from the berries of this remarkable tree. I highly recommend brewing a cup (or two) of this tea to lift your spirits and support a healthy heart.
The Importance of Supporting Your Heart
Do you have an endless to-do list? One that never really seems to have everything crossed off? We take care of so much and when we overdo it, our hearts bear the brunt of stress. Stress can wreak havoc on the cardiovascular system, contributing to hypertension and other heart-related concerns.
The CDC says that heart disease is the “leading cause of death for men, women, and people of most racial and ethnic groups in the United States.”
Proactive heart care is one of the gifts the herbs bring to us, and hawthorn is in the front and center of that stage.
Simple Tea Packed with Many Beneficial Ingredients
The ingredients of my hawthorn tea weren’t chosen at random—each herb in this recipe has its purpose in providing you with nutrients that are beneficial to your heart’s health.
Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)
Hawthorn offers a spectrum of health benefits, with a primary focus on heart health. Rich in antioxidants, it helps relieve oxidative stress, potentially reducing the risk of cardiovascular issues. Studies suggest that hawthorn may contribute to lower blood pressure, improved cholesterol levels and enhanced blood vessel function, making it a natural and holistic choice for a healthy heart.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)
Also packed with antioxidants, cinnamon has been linked to lower levels of inflammation and may contribute to reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, it may help lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels, making it a flavorful and heart-friendly spice that enhances both taste and well-being.
Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum)
Cloves contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may contribute to cardiovascular well-being by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Rose hips (Rosa spp.)
Rose hips, the fruit of the rose plant, are full of antioxidants, like vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. Additionally, the presence of flavonoids in rose hips may contribute to cardiovascular health by helping to lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol thereby supporting your heart.
Honey
To sweeten your cup of tea, a little honey is what many people enjoy. The candy of nature, honey boasts natural antioxidants and antibacterial properties that can support immune function and promote overall well-being. Additionally, its soothing qualities make it an effective remedy for coughs and sore throats.
Hawthorn Tea Recipe for a Healthy Heart
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp hawthorn berries
- 1/2 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1 tsp dried rose hips
- Honey or sweetener of choice (optional)
- 2 cups water
Instructions
- Crush the cinnamon stick slightly to release its flavor.
- Combine the herbs and water in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes.
- After simmering, remove from heat and let steep for 30 minutes.
- Strain spices from tea.
- Reheat the tea and pour into cups.
- If desired, add honey or your preferred sweetener, to taste.
- Enjoy!
Support Your Heart & Soul with Hawthorn
From the rituals of brewing hawthorn tea, with its time-honored cardiovascular benefits, to the warmth imparted by the sweet and spicy notes of cinnamon, cloves, and rose hips, this recipe offers comfort and joy to our hearts. So, sip, savor, and spice up your heart health. Cheers to the simplicity of nature’s remedies and the joy they bring to our lives!
If you’re interested in learning more recipes like my hawthorn tea, or if you want to broaden your herbal knowledge, be sure to enroll in one of my online courses. Discover the power of medicinal meals by signing up for My Herbal Kitchen, or learn how to make home remedies using your favorite herbs and spices you already have in your spice cabinet by enrolling in Kitchen Remedy Solutions.
Also, be sure to check out these additional blog posts for more fun recipe inspiration:
3 Heart-Healthy Hawthorn Berry Recipes You Have to Try
6 Herbal Recipes for the Heart
Hawthorn Berry Heart Tonic Honey