Cancer Prevention and Anti-Cancer Properties
Recent research has discovered that hawthorn contains a compound called vitexin, which possesses anti-cancer properties. Nitrosamines and aflatoxins can induce or exacerbate gastrointestinal cancers; however, experimental studies indicate that hawthorn extract not only blocks the synthesis of nitrosamines but also inhibits the carcinogenic effects of aflatoxins. Therefore, individuals at high risk for gastrointestinal cancer should consume hawthorn regularly. For patients already diagnosed with cancer who experience indigestion, consuming a porridge made from hawthorn and rice can aid digestion while providing an adjunctive anti-cancer effect.

Strengthening Heart Function and Lowering Blood Lipids and Blood Pressure
Clinical studies have confirmed that hawthorn can significantly reduce serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels, effectively preventing and treating atherosclerosis. Hawthorn also strengthens heart function and helps prevent angina by enhancing myocardial contractility, increasing cardiac output, dilating coronary arteries, boosting coronary blood flow, and reducing myocardial oxygen consumption. Additionally, the total flavonoids found in hawthorn help dilate blood vessels and provide a sustained blood-pressure-lowering effect. Consequently, patients with hyperlipidemia, hypertension, or coronary heart disease can consume raw hawthorn daily... Use 15–30g; decoct in water and drink as a substitute for tea.

Treating dysmenorrhea and irregular menstruation
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds that hawthorn promotes blood circulation and dispels blood stasis, making it an excellent dietary remedy for patients with blood-stasis-type dysmenorrhea. Patients with this condition typically experience lower abdominal pain one or two days before menstruation or during the first one or two days of the period; the pain gradually subsides or disappears as the menstrual flow becomes smooth. The menstrual blood is often dark in color and contains clots. To prepare the remedy, take 1,000g of fresh, whole hawthorn fruit (with pits), wash thoroughly, and add an appropriate amount of water. Simmer over low heat until the fruit is thoroughly soft, then add 250g of brown sugar and cook for another 10 minutes until the mixture reaches a thin, paste-like consistency. Begin consumption three to five days before menstruation, taking 30ml of the hawthorn paste each morning and evening, and continue until three days after menstruation ends; this constitutes one treatment cycle. Visible results can be achieved after three consecutive cycles. This method is also suitable for individuals with irregular menstruation diagnosed under TCM principles as having a blood stasis pattern.