Chinese Hawthorn (Shan Zha)

Chinese Bulk Herbs – Chinese Hawthorn (Shan Zha)

Chinese Hawthorn, also known as Shan Zhu, is a sour berry that helps to digest protein and fatty foods. It also promotes blood circulation, making it an effective heart tonic. Shan Zha is helpful for dealing with arteriosclerosis, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Charring the berries and powdering them makes an effective treatment for diarrhea and dysentery.

Clinical Use (Chinese):
Sweet yet sour in flavor, Shan Zha promotes digestion and dissipates food stagnation with its slightly warm nature. It is especially helpful with syndromes caused by eating fatty foods and heavy meats. This herb is warm in nature and activates the blood through the liver meridian and blood system to resolve statis and stop pain. Charring the berry can help to relieve abdominal pain, diarrhea, dysentery, and cholic.

Latin Name:
Crataegus pinnatifida

Chinese Name:
Shan Zha

Common Names:
mountain hawthorn, Chinese haw, Chinese hawthorn, Chinese hawberry

Parts Used:
Dried fruit

Properties:
Promotes circulation, lowers cholesterol, regulates blood pressure, relieves food congestion                                                                                                                                                    

Traditional Uses:

Topical Uses / Applications:

Culinary Uses:

Folk Lore:
N/A

Chemical Properties:

Cautions:
Those with heavily acidic stomachs, and those with spleen and stomach deficiencies should avoid this herb.

*Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

**This information is provided to assist trained practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine with selection of products. If you are not familiar with these formulas or concepts, please consult an acupuncturist or herbal practitioner trained in the use of Chinese herbs or refer to more in-depth reference materials. Chinese herbal remedies are meant to improve health and function, not act as a substitute for medical care.