Hawthorn Berry Tea
Hawthorn berry (Shan Zha) has been used in TCM for centuries to aid digestion, particularly of fatty foods. It's also known for its cardiovascular benefits. The tart, slightly sweet tea is often consumed after heavy meals to promote better digestion and circulation.
Benefits:
- Supports heart health and circulation
- Aids digestion of fatty foods
- Helps reduce blood pressure
- Supports healthy cholesterol levels
About Hawthorn Berry Tea
Hawthorn berry tea (Shan Zha Cha) is made from the dried fruits of the hawthorn tree (Crataegus species). In Traditional Chinese Medicine, hawthorn berries are characterized as sour and slightly sweet in flavor, with a warming property. They are primarily used to improve digestion, particularly of fatty foods, by enhancing the function of the stomach and spleen. Hawthorn is also renowned for its ability to invigorate blood circulation and support cardiovascular health. It contains flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins that contribute to its beneficial effects on the heart and circulatory system.
Historical Use
Hawthorn has been used in traditional medicine systems across Europe and Asia for centuries. In China, its use dates back to at least the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), where it was documented in medical texts for its digestive properties. By the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD), Chinese physicians had expanded its use to include treatments for blood circulation and heart-related conditions.
How to Prepare Hawthorn Berry Tea
Ingredients:
- 10-15g dried hawthorn berries (whole or sliced)
- Optional: 5g dried tangerine peel (Chen Pi) for enhanced digestive benefits
- Optional: small amount of honey or rock sugar for taste
- 500ml water
Preparation Method:
- If using whole berries, lightly crush them to expose more surface area.
- Place the hawthorn berries (and tangerine peel if using) in a pot.
- Add cold water and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and continue cooking for 15-20 minutes with the lid slightly ajar.
- For a stronger decoction, cook for up to 30 minutes.
- Strain the liquid into a cup or teapot.
- Add honey or rock sugar to taste if desired, as hawthorn has a naturally tart flavor.
- For convenience, larger batches can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Recommended Dosage:
Typically consumed after meals, especially following heavy or fatty foods. For cardiovascular support, drink 1 cup (about 250ml) 1-2 times daily. Best taken warm.
Precautions
- May interact with certain cardiovascular medications, particularly digoxin and beta-blockers.
- Those taking blood thinners should use with caution, as hawthorn may enhance their effects.
- Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
- Can cause mild digestive upset in some individuals when first starting.
- Should not be used as a replacement for prescribed heart medications without medical consultation.
Modern Research
Clinical research has shown hawthorn's potential to improve mild heart failure, reduce blood pressure, and lower cholesterol levels. Studies indicate that the flavonoids and procyanidins in hawthorn can improve coronary blood flow, increase cardiac contractility, and provide antioxidant protection to the heart. Research also supports its traditional use for improving digestion by enhancing the activity of digestive enzymes and promoting gastric motility.