Spiced Hawthorn Syrup Recipe

Build strength and vitality over the autumn and winter months by making use of the abundant hawthorn berries available at this time (April to May in most areas) to produce this heart tonic syrup.

Medicinal benefits

Most people think of Hawthorns actions as primarily related to heart function. But historically it was used for other purposes, such as an astringent gargle for sore throats.

Hawthorn has a regulatory and normalizing effect on the heart, which is beneficial in low and high blood pressure. It will also support irregularities of the heartbeat such as arrythmia. If circulation is poor and there is fluid retention, cold extremities or chilblains than Hawthorn is also brilliant for this. What a heart tonic!

Ingredients:

• Hawthorn berries with leaves and stalks removed.

• Honey (preferably raw) or a mild flavour such as acacia works well too

• Cinnamon quills (2 small) and 5 cloves (optional)

Method:

• Wash the hawthorn berries and place in a saucepan. Cover with water, so that the water level is around 25mm above the level of the berries.

• Add the cinnamon quills and cloves if using.

• Bring to the boil and simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring regularly, until the hawthorn berries have softened and start to break down, thickening the liquid. This process can be assisted by pressing the berries against the side of the saucepan with a wooden spoon.

• Strain the liquid through a sieve into a measuring jug and allow to cool. Once cooled add an equal quantity of honey to that of the hawthorn decoction and stir well.

• Store in the fridge in a sterilised bottle or jar.

This syrup should keep well in the fridge for around 3 months. To preserve it for longer you could make a hawthorn tincture and mix that into the syrup.

Shine bright,

Nic

Image: Wild Botanica - Facebook. Felicity Joy - photographer.