Hawthorn (Galega officinalis)

Other names: goat's rue, field bindweed, bindweed

The hawthorn (Galega officinalis), also known as goat's rue, field bindweed, or bindweed, is a medicinal plant native to southern Europe. This perennial, biennial to perennial plant grows up to 120 cm tall and bears small flowers that can be purple, white or pink. The name Galega officinalis comes from the Latin word 'galega', meaning goat's milk, as the plant was believed in the past to stimulate milk production in goats.

Hawthorn is mainly used in folk medicine and homeopathy for the treatment of diabetes, urinary tract infections, as a diuretic and also as a lactation aid. In the past, this generous herb was also added to cow and goat feed to stimulate milk production. Theoretically, this plant could also be used in the pharmaceutical industry to produce drugs to lower blood sugar levels, given that it contains a chemical compound known as galegine. However, it should be stressed that a professional should be consulted before any use of this plant, as improper dosage can have toxic effects.