Date: 09/20/2025 09/21/2025
Location: Star River Meditation Center
Teacher: Yunquan Huang
Buddhist Diet and Regimen
Hawthorn
Hawthorn: A Nutritious Fruit Rich in Antioxidants and Organic Acids
1. What is Hawthorn?
Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida) is a fruit-bearing plant from the Rosaceae family, widely found in China, Europe, and North America. The bright red fruit has a sweet-tart flavor and is commonly consumed fresh, candied, or made into juice and medicinal products. Packed with organic acids, antioxidants, and fiber, hawthorn is valued in both traditional medicine and modern nutrition.
2. Nutritional Value of Hawthorn
Hawthorn is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense fruit rich in vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. Key nutrients include:
1.Vitamin C: Strengthens the immune system, promotes skin health, and provides antioxidant benefits.
2.Organic Acids (e.g., Citric Acid, Malic Acid): Aid digestion by stimulating stomach acid production.
3.Flavonoids: Powerful antioxidants that support heart health.
4.Dietary Fiber: Promotes bowel movements and improves digestion.
5.Potassium: Helps maintain electrolyte balance and supports heart function.
3. Health Benefits of Hawthorn
1.Aids Digestion: Organic acids in hawthorn stimulate gastric juices, improving digestion.
2.Supports Cardiovascular Health: Flavonoids and fiber help regulate cholesterol levels and improve circulation.
3.Enhances Antioxidant Protection: High vitamin C and polyphenol content help reduce free radical damage.
4.Helps Regulate Blood Lipids: Moderate consumption may aid in maintaining balanced cholesterol levels.
5.Boosts Metabolism: Hawthorn compounds assist in fat metabolism, making it beneficial for weight management.
4. Best Ways to Eat Hawthorn
1.Fresh Hawthorn: Eaten raw for its refreshing, tangy taste and vitamin C content.
2.Hawthorn Tea: Made from dried hawthorn slices, known for its digestive benefits.
3.Hawthorn Jelly: A traditional snack with a sweet-tart, chewy texture.
4.Hawthorn Preserves: Candied or dried for convenient snacking.
5.Hawthorn Soup: Simmered with other ingredients for a light, appetizing broth.
5. Interesting Facts About Hawthorn
How to Choose the Best Hawthorn?
Look for bright red fruits with smooth skin and no mold.
Can Hawthorn Be Eaten on an Empty Stomach?
Not recommended, as its acidity may irritate the stomach.
Is It Safe to Eat Hawthorn Every Day?
Yes, but in moderation—10-20g per day is ideal to avoid excessive stomach acid production.
Conclusion
Hawthorn is a fruit rich in organic acids, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. Regular consumption supports digestion, cardiovascular health, immunity, and metabolism. Whether eaten fresh, brewed into tea, made into preserves, or cooked in soups, hawthorn is a flavorful and nutritious addition to a healthy diet.
