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Fresh Hawthorn

Also known as: Crataegus monogyna, Crataegus laevigata, Hawthorn, Mayflower, Maybush, Crataegus species

Overview

Hawthorn refers to a group of species within the *Crataegus* genus, primarily *Crataegus monogyna* and *Crataegus laevigata*. It is a herbal supplement derived from the flowers, leaves, and berries of these plants, commonly found in Europe, Asia, and North America. Traditionally, hawthorn has been used to address various heart conditions, including chronic heart failure and hypertension. The plant is characterized by its rich composition of flavonoids, oligomeric procyanidins, and other bioactive compounds, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. Research on hawthorn is considered to be at a moderate level, with several clinical trials and meta-analyses supporting its use, particularly in managing heart failure symptoms. The available evidence is generally of good quality, with well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses providing support for its efficacy.

Benefits

Hawthorn extract has demonstrated the ability to increase maximal workload tolerance and alleviate symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath in patients with chronic heart failure (NYHA classes I to III) when used alongside conventional treatments. A meta-analysis indicated a significant increase in maximal workload by 7 Watts (95% CI: 3 to 11 Watts) compared to placebo. Secondary benefits may include serum lipid-lowering and antioxidant effects, which could further contribute to cardiovascular health. The most substantial evidence supports its use in individuals with mild to moderate chronic heart failure, showing statistically significant improvements in exercise tolerance and symptom management typically observed within a few weeks of consistent treatment.

How it works

Hawthorn's mechanism of action involves several biological pathways that enhance cardiovascular function. The bioactive compounds present in hawthorn may improve cardiac output and reduce peripheral resistance, contributing to better blood flow and reduced strain on the heart. Additionally, hawthorn exhibits antioxidant properties, which can protect against oxidative stress and inflammation within the cardiovascular system. It may also influence lipid metabolism, potentially helping to lower cholesterol levels. The flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins in hawthorn are believed to interact with various molecular targets involved in maintaining cardiovascular health.

Side effects

Hawthorn is generally considered safe when used appropriately, but some side effects have been reported. Common side effects are rare and typically mild, including nausea, dizziness, and gastrointestinal discomfort. Uncommon and rare side effects are not well-documented. Potential drug interactions, particularly with heart medications, should be considered, although the evidence is limited. Hawthorn should be used cautiously in patients with severe heart conditions or those taking specific medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using hawthorn. It's important to monitor for any adverse reactions and discontinue use if significant side effects occur.

Dosage

The recommended dosage of hawthorn typically involves standardized extracts containing 2.2% flavonoids or 18.75% oligomeric procyanidins. A commonly used dosage range is equivalent to 500-1,000 mg of extract per day. The maximum safe dose is not well-established, and high doses are generally not recommended without medical supervision. Hawthorn is typically taken once or twice daily. Standardized leaf and flower extracts are preferred. Bioavailability may vary based on the specific extract composition. There are no specifically identified required cofactors. It is crucial to adhere to recommended dosages and seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

FAQs

How should hawthorn be used?

Hawthorn should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional, especially if you have existing heart conditions or are taking heart medications. Consistent use as part of a daily regimen is generally recommended.

Is hawthorn safe to use?

Hawthorn is generally safe, but it's important to monitor for potential interactions with heart medications. If you experience any adverse effects, discontinue use and consult with your healthcare provider.

What are the expected results from using hawthorn?

In patients with heart failure, hawthorn may lead to improved exercise tolerance and a reduction in symptoms. However, it is not a replacement for conventional heart failure treatments and should be used as an adjunct.

When is the best time to take hawthorn?

Hawthorn is typically taken once or twice daily. Consistency is key, so choose a time that fits easily into your daily routine to ensure regular intake.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12798455/ – This meta-analysis of 13 trials found that hawthorn extract significantly increased maximal workload and improved symptoms in patients with chronic heart failure compared to placebo. The study suggests that hawthorn can be a beneficial adjunct therapy for managing heart failure symptoms and improving exercise capacity.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7047282/ – This review highlights hawthorn's potential lipid-lowering and antioxidant effects, supporting its cardiovascular protective properties. The authors suggest that these properties contribute to hawthorn's overall benefits in promoting heart health and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2010/0215/p465.html – This systematic review noted that hawthorn extracts improved exercise tolerance and reduced symptoms of fatigue and shortness of breath in patients with chronic heart failure. The review supports the use of hawthorn as a complementary treatment for heart failure, emphasizing its potential to enhance quality of life.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1016/j.ejheart.2008.10.003 – This study investigated the effects of hawthorn extract on patients with heart failure and found improvements in cardiac function and exercise capacity. The findings suggest that hawthorn can positively influence cardiac performance and overall functional status in individuals with heart failure.
https://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/document?repid=rep1&type=pdf&doi=043482c6746d1209c8658690b124f88d1a4d42df – This document provides a comprehensive overview of hawthorn, including its traditional uses, chemical composition, and pharmacological effects. It highlights the potential of hawthorn in treating cardiovascular conditions and discusses its mechanisms of action and safety profile.