Hawthorn

Etymology
The word Crataegus comes from the Latin crataegos, itself derived from the Greek krataegos or kratos, meaning strength—referring to the hardness of its wood, which was used to make walking sticks and tools. Its delicate white spring flowers inspired its common name “hawthorn,” often called “white thorn.”

Habitat and Distribution
Hawthorn is a thorny tree commonly found throughout Europe and belongs to the Rosaceae family, like wild roses and rowan trees. It grows in hedgerows along fields, on forest edges, and in clearings, especially in sunny and dry areas—particularly in Central Europe. In Switzerland, it is found in the lowlands and up to the Pre-Alps.

Ecological Value
Hawthorn is a valuable pantry for small wildlife. Its fine white flowers, which bloom in April and May, are highly appreciated by pollinating insects, while birds often nest among its thorny branches in spring and feast on its fruits starting in October.

Culinary and Medicinal Value
Young leaves are harvested in spring when tender and can be eaten in salads or used to flavor wine. The flowers can be added to salads or dried for herbal teas and have a soft, delicate taste. The berries, called haws, are harvested from September through autumn once they turn bright red. While fresh haws are small and mealy, their true flavor is revealed when cooked, producing a pleasant apple-like aroma that delicately enhances various preparations: purées (with seeds removed after cooking), compotes, jellies, jams, and even flour—by drying and grinding the fruit pulp.

It was only in the 18th century, primarily through experiments by American physicians, that hawthorn’s heart-toning properties became recognized. It strengthens the heart muscle and regulates heartbeat. It is used in cases of heart weakness, cardiovascular diseases (arrhythmia, high blood pressure, etc.), and is praised for its cardioprotective effects. On an emotional level, hawthorn soothes anxiety, helps with insomnia and irritability, and lifts the spirits in times of emotional distress.

Hawthorn Jelly Recipe:
https://cueilleurs-sauvages.ch/blog/aubepine-la-recolter-et-lutiliser/

Sources:
https://www.echappeessauvages.org/post/aubepine-epineuse
https://cueilleurs-sauvages.ch/blog/aubepine-la-recolter-et-lutiliser/
https://www.unifr.ch/jardin-botanique/de/assets/public/files/media/20231116-TERRE_NATU-TN4-008-8(2).pdf