Hawthorn Berries P.E. 4:1

Originally native to Europe, Germany used hawthorne as a hedge to divide plots of land, its sharp thorns was used to ward off intruders. To the ancient Greeks and Romans, it was rich in symbolism, linked to hope, happiness, and marriage (love) and, as such, it was often woven into bridal bouquets. In ancient Rome, hawthorne leaves were placed in babies' cradles to ward off evil spirits. Traditionally, the herb was used medicinally to treat digestive disturbances and insomnia. However, around the late 19th century European physicians discovered that the berries from hawthorne also harbored cardiotonic properties, meaning it benefited the heart.