Twig hawthorn
You may have heard of hawthorn, a plant that is often used as a remedy for heart and circulatory problems. But did you know that there are different types of hawthorn and that they can also be useful for dogs? In this article you will learn more about the two-ribbed hawthorn, a special variety of hawthorn that has many benefits for your four-legged friend.
What is twig hawthorn?
Twig hawthorn (botanical name: Crataegus laevigata) is a plant species from the rose family. It grows as a shrub or small tree and has thorny branches, white or pink flowers and red berries. It is native to Europe, North Africa and West Asia and is often planted as an ornamental plant or hedge.
The name twig-leaved hawthorn comes from the two styles that the flowers have. A pistil is the part of the flower that guides the pollen to the ovule. The two-flowered hawthorn differs from the single-flowered hawthorn (botanical name: Crataegus monogyna), which only has one pistil.
What are the benefits of twig hawthorn for dogs?
Two-ribbed hawthorn is a medicinal plant that has been used in folk medicine for centuries. It contains various active ingredients, such as flavonoids, tannins and vitamins, which have positive effects on the cardiovascular system. For example, it can improve blood circulation, regulate blood pressure, lower the heart rate and strengthen heart contraction.
Two-ribbed hawthorn can therefore help dogs with heart problems, such as heart failure, cardiac arrhythmia or myocarditis. It can also be useful for dogs with liver problems, as it promotes blood circulation in the organ and thus supports the removal of toxins.
In addition, two-ribbed hawthorn has a calming effect on the nervous system. It can therefore help dogs with anxiety, stress or sleep disorders.
What are the disadvantages of two-ribbed hawthorn for dogs?
Two-ribbed hawthorn is generally well tolerated and has few side effects for dogs. However, there are a few points to bear in mind before giving it to your dog.
- Two-rib hawthorn can interact with other medications, especially those that affect the cardiovascular system. Therefore, if your dog is already on medication, you should talk to your vet before giving him hawthorn.
- Hawthorn can cause allergic reactions, especially in dogs that are sensitive to rose plants. So if your dog shows signs of allergy, such as a skin rash, itching or difficulty breathing, you should stop giving him hawthorn and consult a vet.
- Hawthorn can affect blood clotting. So if your dog has an injury or needs an operation, you should not give him hawthorn, as it can increase the risk of bleeding.
How can two-ribbed hawthorn be used for dogs?
Two-ribbed hawthorn can be used for dogs in various forms. The most common are:
- Powder: You can buy the dried and ground herb, flowers or berries as a powder or make your own. The powder can then be mixed into the food or mixed with water to make a mash. The recommended dosage is between 0.5 and 1 gram per day, depending on the size of the dog.
- Tea: The dried or fresh leaves, flowers or berries can be brewed as tea and given to the dog pure or diluted with water. The recommended dosage is one teaspoon for small dogs and one tablespoon for large dogs per 250 ml of water.
- Tincture: The dried or fresh leaves, flowers or berries can be soaked in alcohol and strained after a few weeks. The tincture can then be mixed with food or water and given to the dog. The recommended dosage is 5 to 10 drops per day, depending on the size of the dog.
- Tablets or capsules: You can buy ready-made preparations of two-ribbed hawthorn, which usually contain standardized amounts of active ingredients. The tablets or capsules can be given directly to the dog or mixed with food. The recommended dosage depends on the product and should be taken from the package leaflet.
Two-ribbed hawthorn is a medicinal plant that has many benefits for dogs, especially those with heart or liver problems. It is generally well tolerated and has few side effects. However, it should not be given without consulting a vet if the dog is already on other medication or has an allergy. Two-ribbed hawthorn can be used in various forms, such as powder, tea, tincture or tablets.
If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊