Hawthorn (Wasong) – Benefits, Precautions, and How to Use It

 

Hawthorn (Wasong) Post

Hawthorn (Wasong)

Hello, everyone! Today, I’m excited to talk about a fascinating herb called "Wasong," also known as "rock pine" in Korean. Wasong, scientifically named Orostachys japonicus, is a perennial plant in the Crassulaceae family. It typically grows on old tiled roofs, rock crevices, or in harsh mountainous environments, resembling pine leaves or flowers, which is why it’s called "Wasong" (瓦松, meaning "tile pine"). It’s also known as "rock pine," "roof guardian," or "pagoda pine."

Wasong blooms with white flowers in September to October, bears fruit, and then withers—a unique lifecycle! Its leaves are succulent and often have a slight purplish tint. In traditional Korean medicine, Wasong has been used for detoxification, hemostasis, and anti-cancer purposes, and modern research is now validating these benefits. It’s particularly known for its anti-cancer effects, skin health, and digestive support. Let’s dive into its health benefits, precautions, and ways to use it, with a concise summary at the end!

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Benefits of Wasong: How Does It Help Your Health? 💪

Wasong is renowned for its diverse pharmacological effects. It offers anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits, making it helpful for various health issues. Here’s a breakdown of its key benefits.

Benefits Summary 📌

• Anti-Cancer: Inhibits various cancer cells (stomach, liver, colon, etc.).
• Detox and Blood Purification: Removes toxins, improves hyperlipidemia, supports liver health.
• Anti-Inflammatory and Immunity: Reduces inflammation, prevents colds.
• Digestion and Constipation: Eases indigestion, relieves constipation.
• Skin and Wounds: Improves atopic dermatitis, heals wounds, supports scalp health.
• Oral Health: Relieves dry mouth, reduces oral pain.
• Hemostasis: Stops bleeding (bloody stools, hematuria, etc.).

Hawthorn (Wasong)

• Anti-Cancer Effects
  Wasong is gaining attention for its potent anti-cancer properties. Studies show that Wasong extracts inhibit the growth of various cancer cells, including stomach, liver, colon, cervical, lung, and prostate cancers. Flavonoids, triterpenoids, and phenolic compounds in Wasong are known to suppress cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis. Traditional texts like Donguibogam and Bencao Gangmu also note that Wasong helps reduce tumors and expel waste from the body.
  
  
• Detoxification and Blood Purification
  Wasong helps remove toxins from the body and purifies the blood. It lowers cholesterol, triglycerides, and helps with hyperlipidemia, while also improving blood circulation to prevent hypertension and atherosclerosis. It’s also effective for liver function recovery, making it beneficial for those with fatty liver or hepatitis.
  
  
• Anti-Inflammatory and Immune Boosting
  Wasong is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, helping to alleviate conditions like enteritis, nephritis, and pancreatitis. Its antioxidants, such as vitamin C and polyphenols, boost immunity, aiding in the prevention of colds and respiratory illnesses.
  
  
• Digestive Health and Constipation Relief
  Wasong is great for gut health. It relieves indigestion, bloating, and stress-related gastritis, while also promoting heart and colon muscle contractions to ease constipation. Its organic acids aid digestion and improve gut health.
  
  
• Skin Health and Wound Healing
  Wasong excels in skin care and wound recovery. Its antioxidants prevent skin aging and reduce inflammation, helping with conditions like atopic dermatitis and eczema. Bencao Gangmu mentions applying Wasong to wounds to promote healing or to cracked lips for relief. It’s also good for scalp health, preventing hair loss and dandruff.
  
  

  

  Hawthorn (Wasong)

  
  
• Oral Health and Dry Mouth Relief
  Wasong’s sour taste comes from phenolic acids, benzoic acid, and gallic acid, which stimulate saliva production to relieve dry mouth and oral pain. It’s helpful for burning mouth syndrome, where the mouth feels dry and irritated without visible inflammation.
  
  
• Hemostasis and Bleeding Relief
  Wasong has excellent hemostatic properties. It helps with bleeding issues like hemoptysis, bloody stools from ulcers, uterine bleeding, and hematuria. Bencao Gangmu notes that Wasong stops diarrhea and intestinal bleeding.
  
  
• Other Benefits
  Wasong can help with menstrual irregularities, menopausal symptoms, and prostate health in men. It’s also known to aid in hangover relief, kidney function, and weight management.

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Precautions: Things to Watch Out For ⚠️

While Wasong offers many benefits, it’s not suitable for everyone. Here are some precautions to keep in mind before using it.

Precautions Summary 📌

• Avoid Overconsumption: Limit to 400g per day.
• Cold Nature: Caution for those with cold extremities or frequent diarrhea.
• Pregnant Women: Avoid use, may affect the uterus.
• Chronic Conditions: Check for drug interactions, consult a doctor.
• Allergies: Test with a small amount first.

Hawthorn (Wasong)

• Avoid Overconsumption
  Wasong has strong medicinal properties and high organic acid content, which can strain the liver if overconsumed. It’s recommended to limit intake to 400g (about 2 clusters) per day. Excessive consumption may elevate liver enzyme levels, so stick to moderate amounts.
• Cold Nature Concerns
  Wasong has a cold nature. People with cold hands and feet or frequent diarrhea due to a cold lower abdomen should avoid overconsumption, as it may worsen diarrhea or abdominal pain.
• Pregnant Women and Chronic Conditions
  Pregnant women should avoid Wasong, as it can stimulate blood circulation and affect the uterus. It’s also not recommended for constipation relief in this group. Those with chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, or liver disease should consult a doctor, as Wasong may interact with medications.
• Allergic Reactions
  Wasong may cause allergic reactions in some people. Start with a small amount to check for adverse reactions like itching or rashes.
• Drug Interactions
  Wasong can burden the liver when taken with other medications. If you’re on anti-cancer drugs, blood pressure, or diabetes medications, consult a professional before use.

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How to Use Wasong: Try It This Way 🍵

Wasong can be consumed in various forms—raw, as tea, juice, or fermented liquid. It’s said to be most potent when harvested in August or September. Here are a few ways to enjoy it.

Making Wasong Juice 🥤

1. Wash 30-40g of fresh Wasong thoroughly.
2. Blend it with 2-3 cups of yogurt (or milk) in a blender.
3. Drink on an empty stomach in the morning for anti-cancer and digestive benefits.
4. Make it fresh each time, don’t store it.
   
   

   

   Hawthorn (Wasong)

   
   
   
   

Brewing Wasong Tea ☕

1. Prepare 15-20g of dried Wasong (or 30-40g of fresh Wasong).
2. Add it to 2 liters of water and boil on high heat until the water reduces by half.
3. Strain and drink 2-3 cups a day, warm.
4. It’s great for blood purification and inflammation relief.
   
   

   

   Hawthorn (Wasong)

   
   
   
   

Making Wasong Fermented Liquid 🍯

1. Chop fresh Wasong into large pieces and place in a sterilized jar.
2. Add Wasong and plum extract (or sugar) in a 1:1 ratio.
3. Let it ferment in a cool place for about 3 months, then strain the liquid.
4. Use it in tea or with side dishes.

Making Wasong Liquor 🍶

1. Prepare 200g of fresh Wasong with flower stalks.
2. Pour 1 liter of soju over it, seal, and let it age for 6 months or more.
3. Drink a small glass daily for improved blood circulation and anti-cancer effects.
   
   
   

   

   Hawthorn (Wasong)

   
   

Other Uses ✨

• Skincare: Grind fresh Wasong and apply to the skin like a massage to relieve atopic dermatitis or inflammation.
• Mouth Rinse: Cool Wasong tea and use it as a gargle for oral health.
• Storage: Wasong’s peak season is May to October. Dry and store in an airtight container or freeze for later use.

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Wrap-Up: Boost Your Health with Wasong

We’ve explored the benefits, precautions, and ways to use Wasong. From anti-cancer properties to detoxification, skin health, and digestive support, Wasong is truly a natural treasure. I’m planning to make Wasong juice and drink a glass each morning. Why not try incorporating Wasong into your routine to boost your health? Just make sure it suits your body and consume it in moderation. I’ll be back with more helpful info soon. Stay healthy and happy!