Heart trouble often arises as the result of two major risk factors: atherosclerosis, in which cholesterol deposits gather on artery walls, and high blood pressure, which can cause the blood-vessel damage that encourages cholesterol to collect. Hawthorn fights the oxidation of "bad" LDL cholesterol, which keeps it from forming those troublesome deposits, and encourages the liver to convert LDL into artery-clearing "good" HDL cholesterol. In addition, by acting as a diuretic and relaxing arteries, hawthorn also helps lower blood pressure.
Better blood flow helps explain why hawthorn has long been used in the East to treat memory problems. It is also a rich source of vitamin C, which is essential for strengthening tiny blood vessels called capillaries within the brain.
Like those of many other herbs, hawthorn's effects need time to show themselves; its use requires patience. Do not substitute hawthorn for, or use it with, prescription medications without professional guidance.
Living with congestive heart failure can be discouraging. But hawthorn can offer the prospect for a better quality of life.
