Hawthorne Berry Powder
Also known as: Crataegus monogyna, Crataegus laevigata, Hawthorn berry, Hawthorn extract, Hawthorn powder, Mayflower, Whitethorn
Overview
Hawthorn berry powder is derived from the dried berries of *Crataegus* species, native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It is primarily used to support cardiovascular health, particularly as an adjunctive treatment for chronic heart failure (CHF) and to improve general cardiac function. Standardized extracts, such as WS 1442 (standardized to 18.75% oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs)) and LI 132 (standardized to 2.2% flavonoids), are commonly used in research. Hawthorn's benefits include improved exercise tolerance, reduced cardiac oxygen consumption, and symptom relief in CHF patients. Research maturity is moderate, with several RCTs and systematic reviews, but long-term safety and efficacy data are limited. The quality of evidence is good for short-term symptom management in CHF but limited for other indications. It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts.
Benefits
Hawthorn berry powder has several evidence-based benefits, primarily for cardiovascular health. It has been shown to increase maximal workload (WMD 5.35 Watts, 95% CI 0.71 to 10.00) and exercise tolerance (WMD 122.76 Watt × min, 95% CI 32.74 to 212.78). It also reduces pressure-heart rate product (WMD -19.22 mmHg/min, 95% CI -30.46 to -7.98), indicating reduced cardiac oxygen consumption. Patients with NYHA class I–III chronic heart failure experience significant reductions in shortness of breath and fatigue (WMD -5.47, 95% CI -8.68 to -2.26). Secondary benefits include potential antioxidant and mild hypotensive effects, although these are less robustly documented. Benefits are typically observed within 6–8 weeks.
How it works
Hawthorn berry powder exerts its effects through several biological pathways. It has a positive inotropic effect, increasing the force of heart contractions. It also promotes vasodilation by relaxing vascular smooth muscle, improving blood flow. The antioxidant activity of its constituents, such as OPCs and flavonoids, helps scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. These compounds act on endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), potassium channels, and calcium channels. While OPCs and flavonoids are absorbed, the exact pharmacokinetics are not well characterized.
Side effects
Hawthorn berry powder is generally well-tolerated, with adverse events being infrequent, mild, and transient. Common side effects (greater than 5%) are not typically reported in clinical trials. Uncommon side effects (1–5%) may include nausea, dizziness, and gastrointestinal complaints. Rare side effects (less than 1%) can include cardiac complaints such as palpitations, but these are typically mild. Caution is advised due to potential additive effects with cardiac glycosides, beta-blockers, and antihypertensives. While contraindications are not well-established, use with caution in patients on multiple cardiovascular medications. Limited data exists for use during pregnancy, lactation, and in children, so it should be avoided unless under medical supervision.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of hawthorn berry powder is not well established, but most trials use 300–900 mg/day of a standardized extract, such as WS 1442 or LI 132. Doses up to 1,800 mg/day have been used in some studies without significant adverse effects, but the maximum safe dose is not definitively established. It is typically divided into 2–3 doses per day. Standardized extracts are preferred for consistency. Taking it with food may reduce gastrointestinal discomfort. No specific cofactors are required.
FAQs
Is hawthorn berry powder safe to take with heart medications?
Hawthorn berry powder may have additive effects with cardiac glycosides, beta-blockers, and antihypertensives. Monitor closely and consult with a healthcare provider before combining it with other heart medications.
How long does it take to see the benefits of hawthorn berry powder?
Benefits are typically observed within 6–8 weeks of consistent use. It's important to maintain regular dosing and monitor symptoms during this period.
Can hawthorn berry powder replace my heart failure medication?
No, hawthorn berry powder should be used as an adjunct to conventional CHF treatment, not as a replacement. It can help improve symptoms and exercise tolerance but does not replace prescribed medications.
What are the common side effects of hawthorn berry powder?
Hawthorn berry powder is generally well-tolerated. Some people may experience mild nausea, dizziness, or gastrointestinal discomfort. Serious side effects are rare.
How should I take hawthorn berry powder for best results?
Take hawthorn berry powder with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Follow the recommended dosage of 300-900mg of standardized extract daily, divided into 2-3 doses.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18254076/ – This Cochrane systematic review and meta-analysis of 10 trials (n=855) found that hawthorn extract significantly improved maximal workload, exercise tolerance, and symptoms of CHF compared to placebo. The review noted no significant data on mortality or long-term outcomes, and one trial reported deaths without providing details, highlighting the need for further research in these areas.
- https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2010/0215/p465.html – This American Family Physician review confirmed the benefits of hawthorn extract in CHF, noting rare and mild adverse events. The review relies on prior meta-analyses and provides a high-quality summary of existing evidence, reinforcing the potential of hawthorn as an adjunctive treatment for CHF.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1016/j.ejheart.2008.10.003 – This European Journal of Heart Failure review and commentary supports the safety and efficacy of hawthorn in improving exercise capacity in CHF, consistent with meta-analyses. While not a primary study, it provides expert commentary reinforcing the potential benefits of hawthorn in managing CHF symptoms.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4907/11/5/564 – This review discusses the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical applications of hawthorn. It highlights the antioxidant and cardioprotective effects of hawthorn's constituents, such as oligomeric procyanidins and flavonoids, and their mechanisms of action on cardiovascular health.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/hawthorn.html – This resource provides general information on hawthorn, including its uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations. It serves as a comprehensive overview for individuals seeking information on hawthorn as a natural product.