In Chinese medicine, Hawthorn Berry, or Shan Zha is a primary herb used to relieve what we call food stagnation, a stuck feeling after overeating or indulging in rich foods. It is specifically helpful after consuming excess protein and fats. Not only a digestive herb, Hawthorn Berry promotes circulation and dilates heart vessels to improve blood flow and alleviate stagnation. It is also said to have a secondary effect of causing a sense of calmness and harmony. 

In Western medicine, Hawthorn Berry aids in digestion by encouraging bile production. It is also anti inflammatory, lowers blood pressure, regulates lipid levels, and dilates heart vessels to promote circulation. It is rich in amino acids, vitamin C and beta-carotene, B vitamins, manganese, calcium, iron and dietary fiber.

Fun Fact: Hawthorn Berry was mentioned in the world’s first known pharmacopeia text Tang Materia Medica (Tang Ben Cao) in 659 AD, and was cited for treating dysentery.