Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed Monograph

Crataegus songarica

Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.

Enhanced precautions for this plant: Not recommended in combination with cardiac medications (digitalis, beta-blockers, anticoagulants) without medical advice, due to possible interactions affecting heart rhythm and blood pressure. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to insufficient data. Prolonged use or cardiac application must always be supervised by a healthcare professional. Avoid in individuals with hypotension, as hawthorn may intensify low blood pressure.

Infusion — Flowers and flowering tops

Soothing evening infusion

Pour simmering water over dried flowers and allow to steep for about ten minutes, covered. Consult a healthcare professional before any regular use, particularly if cardiac treatment is ongoing. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Decoction — Dried fruits

Fruit decoction

Gently simmer crushed fruits in water for about fifteen minutes, then strain. This preparation was traditionally drunk warm, between meals, under the supervision of a practitioner for prolonged cardiac use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Tincture — Flowers and fruits

Songarian hawthorn tincture

Fresh flowers and fruits macerate for several weeks in alcohol, away from light, before filtration. Reserved for use supervised by a therapist, due to the risk of drug interactions. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Obtaining the plant

It is found primarily in the wild in the mountainous regions of Central Asia (Tian Shan, Dzungaria); in Europe, it remains rare and is mainly encountered through specialized herbalist shops or botanical collections.

Harvest season

When to harvest it

Flowers are picked in spring just as they open, while fruits are harvested at full maturity in late summer and autumn.

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