Ingredient Spotlight

Hawthorn Berry / Shan Zha

Traditionally supports: Digestive ease, Bloating support, Encourage blood flow, and Overall vitality

How It's Used

In Chinese herbal traditions, Hawthorn Berry (Shan Zha) is a trusted herb for promoting digestive harmony, particularly after enjoying rich or heavy meals. It supports circulation, encourages smooth energy flow, and is believed to promote calm and balance.

In Western herbal practices, Hawthorn Berry is valued for its role in supporting natural digestion and cardiovascular well-being. Packed with essential nutrients like vitamin C, beta-carotene, and dietary fiber, it helps maintain balance while promoting resilience and vitality.

Fun Fact:Β Featured in theΒ Tang Materia Medicaβ€”the world’s first known pharmacopeia written in 659 ADβ€”Hawthorn Berry was praised for its wide-ranging benefits, including its role in addressing digestive challenges like dysentery.

"Across the global traditions, the lore of Hawthorn Berry is that it encourages heart opening and social connection. Pass around after dinner as a digestif, and you may find yourselves lingering around the table deep in conversation!"

- Megan MacLaggan, Elix Doctor of Chinese Medicine

What the research says.

Recent trials have demonstrated the efficacy of Chinese hawthorn fruit in lowering blood cholesterol and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The fruit has also demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour activities.

Polyphenolic Profile and Biological Activity of Chinese Hawthorn Fruits

More than 50 flavonoids have been isolated from genus Crateagus spp.

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Polyphenolic Profile and Biological Activity of Chinese Hawthorn Fruits

During the last few decades Chinese hawthorn fruit has received much attention because of its potential to reduce serum total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triacylglycerols (TAG) level

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Polyphenolic Profile and Biological Activity of Chinese Hawthorn Fruits

The flavonoid contents of dried fruits of C. pinnatifida present in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory potential, and may play a role in hepatoprotection

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Feel the difference for yourself.

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