What to know about Crataegus pinnatifida (chinese hawthorn) before using it medicinally

Crataegus pinnatifida, commonly known as Chinese hawthorn, is a medicinal herb that has been used to improve cardiovascular health by reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure.

This versatile herb is also prized for its ornamental value in gardens, with its attractive flowers and red berries adding a pop of color in late spring. Botanically, Crataegus pinnatifida is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family, characterized by its pinnate leaves and thorny branches.

Historically, Chinese hawthorn has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, with references to its medicinal properties dating back to the Shennong Ben Cao Jing, a classic text on herbal medicine.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Crataegus pinnatifida.

What are the medicinal properties of Crataegus pinnatifida?

Crataegus pinnatifida, also known as Chinese hawthorn, helps with cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure, improving lipid profiles, and enhancing cardiovascular function. It has been used to treat conditions such as hypertension, atherosclerosis, and cardiac arrhythmias.

The medicinal properties of Chinese hawthorn are attributed to its rich content of flavonoids, triterpenoids, and phenolic acids. These compounds have been shown to exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-hypertensive activities, contributing to the plant's therapeutic effects.

The fruits and leaves of the Chinese hawthorn plant are the most commonly used parts for medicinal purposes. The fruits are rich in flavonoids and triterpenoids, while the leaves contain a higher concentration of phenolic acids. These parts are traditionally used to prepare teas, decoctions, and infusions.

Possible side effects of Chinese hawthorn include gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, and allergic reactions. In rare cases, it may interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants and anti-diabetic agents, leading to adverse effects. Appropriate use and dosage are essential to minimize these risks.

Precautions when using Chinese hawthorn medicinally include consulting with a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, such as bleeding disorders, kidney or liver disease, or during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

What are the horticulural aspects of Crataegus pinnatifida?

Crataegus pinnatifida, also known as Chinese Hawthorn, grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-8. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.

Planting tips for Crataegus pinnatifida include choosing a location with good air circulation to prevent disease. Plant in the spring or fall, when the weather is cooler, to minimize transplant shock. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball, and amend the soil with organic matter if necessary. Water regularly during the first year after planting.

Harvesting tips for Crataegus pinnatifida include selecting fruit that is bright red or orange in color and slightly soft to the touch. The fruit should be harvested in late summer or early fall, when it is fully ripe. Harvest individual fruits or branches, as needed, to promote continuous fruiting. Store the fruit in a cool, dry place to preserve its quality.

Common pests and diseases affecting Crataegus pinnatifida include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects, which can be managed with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot can be treated with fungicides, while bacterial diseases like fire blight require prompt pruning to prevent the spread of infection.

What are the botanical aspects of Crataegus pinnatifida?

Crataegus pinnatifida is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 10 meters in height. It has a broad, rounded crown and a grayish-brown bark with horizontal lenticels. Leaves are dark green, pinnate, and have 7-11 leaflets.

Crataegus pinnatifida belongs to the family Rosaceae, order Rosales, and class Magnoliopsida. It is a member of the genus Crataegus, which comprises about 200 species of hawthorns. The species was first described by Carl Peter Thunberg in 1784.

Several variants of Crataegus pinnatifida exist, including var. sinensis and var. pinnatifida. These variants differ in leaf shape, size, and number of leaflets. Some variants are also more tolerant of drought than others.

Crataegus pinnatifida is native to East Asia, specifically in China, Japan, and Korea. It has also been naturalized in parts of Europe and North America. The plant thrives in temperate climates with well-drained soils.

The life cycle of Crataegus pinnatifida begins with flower formation in spring, followed by fruiting in summer. Seeds mature in autumn, and new shoots emerge in spring. The plant can live for up to 50 years, depending on environmental conditions.

What are the historical aspects of Crataegus pinnatifida?

Crataegus pinnatifida, also known as Chinese hawthorn, is a plant with a long history of medicinal and culinary use. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for over 1,000 years to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive issues and cardiovascular problems.

In Chinese mythology, the Chinese hawthorn is associated with the god of the underworld, Yu Huang. According to legend, the god used the plant to ward off evil spirits and to promote longevity. In some regions, the plant is also believed to have protective qualities, and is hung in doorways to ward off evil.

In many Eastern cultures, the Chinese hawthorn is a symbol of good luck and prosperity. The plant's thorns are believed to represent the challenges of life, while its fruit represents the rewards of perseverance and hard work. In some cultures, the plant is also seen as a symbol of love and loyalty.

One of the earliest recorded references to Chinese hawthorn can be found in the Chinese medical text, "Shennong Bencaojing", written in the 2nd century AD. This text describes the plant's medicinal properties and its use in treating a variety of ailments.

Archaeological finds have revealed that Chinese hawthorn was used in ancient China for both medicinal and ceremonial purposes. Excavations at the site of the ancient city of Xi'an have uncovered evidence of the plant's use in rituals and ceremonies, including the discovery of ceramic vessels containing the plant's berries.