The Crataegus laevigata also known as the Midland Hawthorn is native to Central and Western Europe. Growing in dense woodlands, hedge banks and heavy soils, the shrub belongs to the Rosaceae family and goes by the common name Mayflower. This large shrub has the ability to grow into a small tree, which is dense, has a thorny cover and can be up to 8 to 10 m in height. The leaves are shiny, three-lobed and dark green in colour. The flowers look creamy-white and appear in clusters sometime in the middle of April. The fruits are oval in shape and red-coloured berries containing two seeds.

The hawthorn herb

The genus of this plant has around 280 species out of which 60 belong to Europe and Asia. The hawthorn berries are widely used in herbal medicinal preparations. The leaves and flowers contain more active substances and are used in the treatment of several ailments:

For hair growth

The Crataegus laevigata contains ingredients that can promote hair growth. The size and number of hair follicles are increased proving it to be a promising remedy for hair loss.