Hawthorn leaf refers to the leaves of the hawthorn plant, which is native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The leaves of the hawthorn plant have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, particularly for cardiovascular health. They are believed to contain various beneficial compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, and oligomeric procyanidins, which may help improve blood flow, lower blood pressure, and reduce inflammation.
In addition to their potential health benefits, hawthorn leaves have a pleasant, slightly sweet and slightly bitter flavor. They are often used as a tea ingredient and can be brewed alone or combined with other herbs to make flavorful and health-promoting herbal tea blends. Hawthorn leaves may also be used as a culinary herb, adding a unique flavor to soups, stews, and other dishes.