(Crataegus laevigata) has been popular for centuries as a means of assisting with cardiovascular health. It is believed that hawthorn, a native to Europe, North America and Asia, has been trusted for easing sore throats, treating heart ailments, and reducing the retention of water. The hawthorn shrub consists of a thick brush and thorny branches. Considered to be a sacred tree the extract was used as a remedy for a variety of ailments including digestive trouble, anxiety and diarrhea.