The Hawthorn tree is fascinating, enchanting, and steeped in history. It has many names, including Crataegus, Quickthorn, Thornapple, May tree, Mayflower, and Hawberry, but most commonly known in Britain and Ireland as the Hawthorn.
Often standing alone in the hills or beside sacred wells, the Hawthorn is one of the most sacred trees, symbolizing love, death, wealth, and superstition. Beautiful coloured ribbons often hang from their branches—each associated with a wish or a prayer for oneself or the tree's longevity.
It is almost seen as a crime to cut a hawthorn down, and it is unlucky to cut any part except in the month of May. This sweet little tree has played a central role in May Day celebrations for centuries, with the white and pink blossoms often used to decorate window and door frames to celebrate the coming of spring and summer. The blossom is considered unlucky to bring into the home, resulting in hawthorn garlands being made and hung outdoors.
In Gaelic folklore, the isolated hawthorn trees or lone bushes create a protected and enchanting entrance to the other world and fairy realm. It is believed fairies live under hawthorns as their guardians, keeping the two worlds connected and treating the tree with great respect and care.
Glastonbury Hawthorn Tree (centre)
More tales of the hawthorn tree include the site of Westminster. The famous London landmark was once known as Thorney Island, which is believed to be named after the hawthorn trees that grew here once upon a time. Thorney Island was a small island on the Thames, upstream of medieval London, where the houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey were built.
However, the most famous tale is that of Christ, along with his uncle Joseph of Arimathea. The thorny crown placed upon Jesus' head during his crucifixion was believed to be made from a hawthorn tree. After Jesus' passing, Joseph of Arimathea returned to the countryside of Glastonbury in England, where he placed a part of the Hawthorn used at the crucifixion into the hillside, where it took root and began to grow. Clippings have been taken over time and replanted due to the tree's old age or vandalism. Since the reign of King James 1, it has been a Christmas tradition for a sprig of the Holy thorn, which resides in Glastonbury, to be sent to the sovereign to decorate the royal family's dinner table.
That isn't all about this beautiful tree. Flowers, leaves, and fruits of the Hawthorn are all edible. However, there is contradicting information regarding the seeds inside the winter berry and whether they are poisonous, so please be cautious and do your own research before foraging. Likely, the most fascinating part of the Hawthorn is its medicinal properties. In studies carried out in 2008, evidence exists of significant benefits in symptom control and physiological outcomes for an extract of Hawthorn used in treating chronic heart failure.
Researchers have suggested that compounds called flavonoids in Hawthorn might be behind these beneficial effects. Other medicinal benefits of Hawthorn are lowering blood pressure, having anti-inflammatory properties, anti-ageing properties, and improving anxiety. Although, like everything, side effects from taking Hawthorn may occur, so talking with a health care professional would be highly recommended.
Sending Love & Light
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