CRATAEGUS

Homeopathy

CRATAEGUS

Crataegus laevigata syn. C. oxyacantha, or C. monogyna
Hawthorn, May tree, whitethorn.

Key Uses:

Palpitations, possibly accompanied by fainting and collapse

Pulse that is fast, feeble, and intermittent

Rapid heartbeat

Weak heart

Hypertension

Origin : Found in all temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere.

Background : Hawthorn is an extremely valuable medicinal herb, used since the Middle Ages as a heart remedy. Modern trials have shown that it improves the heart rate and lowers blood pressure.

Preparation : The fresh, ripe berries are chopped and macerated in alcohol.

Remedy Profile : Crataegus is most appropriate for irritable, cross, melancholic people who are prone to heart complaints. They tend to feel weak, fragile, and despairing. Their brains feel dull and confused, with possible periods of quiet and calm.
The characteristic symptom picture for the remedy is of a weak heart, palpitations, and a rapid heartbeat with a sense of hurry and urgency. The pulse is fast, feeble, and intermittent. Fainting and collapse may accompany palpitations, while the area around the heart can feel as though it is bursting due to congestion or overexertion.

Symptoms Better : For fresh air; for quiet; for rest; during menstruation; for washing.

Symptoms Worse : For heat; for sweating; in the morning; in the evening.