Hawthorn berry has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and modern research has shown it to have antioxidant properties and potential benefits for heart health. It should be used with caution and avoided during pregnancy and when taking certain medications.
Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna) is a thorny shrub-like tree that shares its genus with approximately 280 members of the Rosaceae family, including the rose. The herb is commonly known as mayblosson and the fruit as haw. Although the fruit resembles a berry, it is actually a pip, the name given to a type of fruit that contains one or more kernels or stones similar in appearance to the pit of a peach.
Like many herbs of importance to naturopathic and homeopathic medicine, hawthorn berry was celebrated for its healing properties long before evidence-based medicine could validate its benefits. For example, in Scotland and Wales, a centuries-old tradition is to place an offering at the site of ancient wells to call upon the nature spirits to effect a healing. Since the offering is often in the form of a cloot or strip of cloth, these sacred sites are known as clootie pits. Hawthorn is typically found growing near these wells, so visiting patrons often “seal” their healing rituals by tying their cloot to its branches. In fact, this association is referenced in an old Celtic adage that advises: “‘When all fruit fails, haws welcome.”
For modern scientists, the medicinal properties of the hawthorn berry can be attributed to the presence of certain bioflavonoids, especially oligomeric procyanidins. Research has shown that these agents provide antioxidant activity and may help improve the elasticity of blood vessels, thereby improving circulation, lowering cholesterol levels, and lowering blood pressure. Several studies have investigated the effects of these compounds on the heart in particular, the findings of which suggest that hawthorn berry may improve cardiac function in patients diagnosed with heart failure. Not only did patients consistently experience significantly reduced heart palpitations, fatigue, and shortness of breath in these studies, but they were also able to reduce the number of prescription medications taken to treat these symptoms. In fact, one study showed that the effects of supplementing with hawthorn berries for 60 days were comparable to low doses of the heart medication captropril.
Hawthorn berry is available in capsule form, or as an extract or tincture standardized to contain 20% oligomeric procyanidins. Negative side effects are rare, although headaches or increased heart rate have been reported in some individuals. However, it should be noted that the herb should be avoided during pregnancy and should not be combined with other medications intended to treat heart conditions. Additionally, some research suggests that the action of this herbal remedy may counteract the effects of phenylephrine, an ingredient found in nasal decongestants.
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