Hawthorn / Crataegus Pinnatifida (shan zha)  山楂

Nature: Slightly warm; sweet and sour; attributive to spleen stomach and liver.

Characteristics: Fruits, a general herb and is especially effective in promoting digestion.

Therapeutic effects: Improve digestion and movement of meats and fats; relieve diarrhea; promote blood circulation and disperse blood stasis; dilate blood vessels to lower blood pressure; dissolve cholesterol deposits in lining of blood vessels and treat congestive heart failure.