European Hawthorne Berry Extract
Also known as: Crataegus laevigata, European Hawthorn, Hawthorn Berry, Crataegus monogyna
Overview
Hawthorn is a herbal extract derived from the berries, leaves, and flowers of *Crataegus* species, particularly *Crataegus monogyna* and *Crataegus laevigata*. It is rich in bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins, known for their antioxidant effects. Traditionally used for cardiovascular issues, including chronic heart failure and hypertension, it has shown promise in improving heart function and symptoms associated with heart conditions. The extract is available in various forms, with standardized extracts being the most effective for ensuring consistent dosage and potency. Research into hawthorn's efficacy is moderately mature, indicating significant benefits but also suggesting the need for further studies to optimize treatment protocols.
Benefits
Hawthorn extract provides several evidence-based benefits, especially for patients with chronic heart failure (NYHA classes I-III). Studies indicate it significantly improves exercise tolerance and maximal workload, enhancing the patient's ability to perform physical activities. Specific outcomes demonstrate reductions in the pressure-heart rate product, which signifies lowered cardiac oxygen consumption. Additionally, it may aid in blood pressure management, although findings are somewhat inconsistent. Over time, these improvements can be observed within weeks to months of treatment. Effect sizes related to patient symptom control and exercise abilities have shown moderate to large benefits based on clinical studies.
How it works
The bioactive compounds in hawthorn, particularly flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins, enhance cardiovascular functionality by promoting vasodilation, reducing inflammation, and modulating cardiac output. These components facilitate improved blood flow and oxygen delivery to the heart muscle. Additionally, hawthorn may interact with the nervous system due to its antioxidant properties, possibly contributing to its cardioprotective effects. The active compounds are generally well absorbed when consumed as standardized extracts, aiding in their therapeutic effectiveness.
Side effects
Hawthorn is generally regarded as safe; however, some individuals may experience common side effects such as nausea, dizziness, and gastrointestinal complaints, occurring in greater than 5% of users. Uncommon and rare side effects remain poorly documented. Patients on anticoagulants or blood pressure medications should exercise caution due to potential interactions. There are no established contraindications, but limited data on safety during pregnancy and lactation suggests extra caution in these populations. Additionally, there's a need for close monitoring in individuals with severe heart conditions or who are on prescribed cardiovascular medications.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of hawthorn typically involves standardized extracts containing at least 2.2% flavonoids or 18.75% oligomeric procyanidins. The optimal dosage ranges from 500 to 1200 mg per day, depending on the formulation and clinical needs. Higher dosages above 1200 mg per day have not been extensively studied, raising questions about their safety and effectiveness. For best results, consistent daily dosing is recommended. The extracts should preferably come from the leaves and flowers, which are deemed most effective, although bioavailability may vary based on specific formulations.
FAQs
Is hawthorn safe to use with heart medications?
Hawthorn can interact with cardiovascular medications, so it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider before combining treatments.
How long does it take to see benefits from hawthorn?
Improvements in symptoms of heart failure and exercise tolerance may be noticed within a few weeks to months of consistent use.
Can I take hawthorn during pregnancy?
Caution is advised when using hawthorn during pregnancy due to insufficient data on safety; consult a healthcare provider.
Should hawthorn replace my current heart medication?
Hawthorn should not replace conventional heart treatments but can be used as a complementary therapy under medical supervision.
What are the common side effects of hawthorn?
Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues; severe side effects are rare.
Research Sources
- http://publicatio.bibl.u-szeged.hu/16052/1/1-s2.0-S0944711319301503-main.pdf – This meta-analysis examined the efficacy of hawthorn extract in 855 chronic heart failure patients, showing significant improvements in maximal workload and exercise tolerance compared to placebo, though with limited mortality data.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18254076/ – This systematic review highlighted consistent benefits of hawthorn extract for heart failure symptoms and physiological outcomes, although variability in study designs and durations was noted.
- https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2010/0215/p465.html – A review discussing the potential benefits of hawthorn for managing heart disease, emphasizing its role as an adjunct therapy while noting the need for more rigorous studies.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12798455/ – This study investigated hawthorn's use in hypotensive patients, noting significant blood pressure improvements when combined with camphor, although optimal dosing remains unclear.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4907/11/5/564 – The article reviews hawthorn’s health benefits, discussing its antioxidant properties and relevance in cardiovascular health, contributing to a broader understanding of its therapeutic mechanisms.