Hawthorn

Crataegus monogyna, known as common hawthorn, oneseed hawthorn, or single-seeded hawthorn, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family Rosaceae. It is native to Europe, northwestern Africa and West Asia, but has been introduced in many other parts of the world. Other common names include may, mayblossom, maythorn, quickthorn, whitethorn, motherdie, and haw. Crataegus monogyna is one of the most common species used as the "hawthorn" of traditional herbalism. The plant parts used are usually sprigs with both leaves and flowers, or alternatively the fruit ("berries"). Hawthorn has been investigated by evidence-based medicine for treating cardiac insufficiency. Crataegus monogyna is a source of antioxidant phytochemicals, especially extracts of hawthorn leaves with flowers.