ENGLISH NAME: Midland Hawthorn
LATIN NAME: Crataegus
laevigata
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Hloh obecný
Turkey: Alıç
Bulgaria: Глог (Glog)
Georgia: ცერცვი (Tsertskvi) (used broadly for hawthorn
species)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Common in
temperate forests, hedgerows, and meadows
Elevation: 200–1,400 meters
Terrain: Forest edges,
hillsides, meadows, and scrublands
DESCRIPTION:
Midland Hawthorn is a thorny, deciduous shrub or small tree that typically
reaches 5 to 8 meters in height. It has deeply lobed leaves, thorny branches,
and produces clusters of white to pale pink flowers in late spring. These are
followed by small, round red or dark red berries (haws) in late summer to fall.
USABLE PARTS: Berry (also
flowers and leaves in traditional use)
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Hawthorn berries are well-known for supporting heart health. They help improve
blood circulation, strengthen the heart muscle, and may aid in regulating blood
pressure. Traditionally used for mild heart failure, anxiety-related heart
symptoms, and cardiovascular tonics.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally safe in moderate doses; may interact with heart medications such as
beta-blockers or digitalis. Always consult a physician if using for heart
conditions.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Often combined with motherwort or lemon balm for cardiovascular and nervous
system support.
PREPARATION:
Berries are dried and used in teas, tinctures, or jams. They may also be
simmered to extract their active compounds for tonics.
HARVEST TIME:
Late summer to early fall, when berries are fully ripe and have developed a
deep red color.
HARVEST METHOD:
Handpick ripe berries carefully to avoid thorns. Clean and sort before drying.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry berries slowly in a well-ventilated area. Store in airtight containers in a
cool, dark location to preserve potency for teas and tinctures.