Hawthorn Berries Extract
Also known as: Crataegus monogyna, Crataegus laevigata, Crataegus pinnatifida, Hawthorn berries extract, Hawthorn extract, Crataegus spp.
Overview
Hawthorn berries extract is derived from the fruit of various *Crataegus* species, primarily *Crataegus monogyna*, *Crataegus laevigata*, and *Crataegus pinnatifida*. Historically, it has been utilized in traditional medicine for its cardiovascular benefits, particularly in managing hypertension and heart failure. The extract contains a rich profile of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, oligomeric procyanidins, and polyphenols, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. Its primary applications in modern supplementation focus on supporting cardiovascular health, including the regulation of blood pressure and the alleviation of symptoms associated with heart failure. While research on hawthorn is ongoing, several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses support its cardioprotective properties, though further large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to establish definitive conclusions and optimal usage guidelines. It is available in various forms, often standardized to its active compounds.
Benefits
Hawthorn berries extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily for cardiovascular health. A 2025 meta-analysis of six randomized controlled trials (n=428) indicated that hawthorn extract significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 6.65 mmHg over 2–6 months, suggesting its utility in hypertension management, though more research is needed on diastolic pressure. For chronic heart failure (CHF), a Cochrane systematic review (14 RCTs, n=855) found that hawthorn extract, when used as an adjunct therapy, improved maximal workload, exercise tolerance, and reduced symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue. Preclinical and some clinical evidence also points to its cardioprotective and lipid-lowering effects, including reducing serum lipids, mitigating oxidative stress, and enhancing endothelial function, which may help in preventing atherosclerosis progression. Additionally, hawthorn exhibits antioxidant activity, inhibits platelet aggregation, and promotes vasodilation through nitric oxide pathways, further contributing to its cardiovascular support.
How it works
Hawthorn's therapeutic effects are attributed to its rich content of bioactive compounds, primarily flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins. These compounds exert potent antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals and inhibiting neutrophil elastase, thereby protecting myocardial tissue from ischemic damage. They also promote vasodilation by activating endothelium-derived relaxing factors and inhibiting phosphodiesterase enzymes, which leads to improved coronary blood flow and reduced peripheral resistance. The lipid-lowering actions involve inhibiting intestinal lipid absorption, suppressing hepatic cholesterol synthesis, and promoting cholesterol efflux, which collectively reduces foam cell formation and vascular inflammation. Furthermore, hawthorn has been shown to exert positive inotropic effects, enhancing the contractility of heart muscle and improving the efficiency of oxygen consumption. The bioavailability and efficacy of hawthorn extracts are often linked to their standardization, with commonly studied extracts like WS 1442 being standardized to their oligomeric procyanidin content.
Side effects
Hawthorn berries extract is generally well tolerated, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, and dizziness are rare, occurring in less than 5% of users. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of individuals, may include transient cardiac symptoms and headaches. Serious adverse events are rare, and no significant safety signals have emerged from randomized controlled trials. However, potential drug interactions are a concern, particularly with antihypertensive medications, as hawthorn may have additive hypotensive effects, necessitating caution and medical supervision. While not strictly contraindicated, caution is advised for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and those with severe cardiac conditions should only use hawthorn under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Long-term safety data beyond six months are limited, and individuals should consult their doctor before starting hawthorn, especially if they are on other medications or have pre-existing health conditions.
Dosage
Effective dosages of hawthorn extract, as observed in clinical studies, typically range from 250 to 1200 mg per day. These doses are usually of extracts standardized to their oligomeric procyanidin content, such as WS 1442, which is standardized to 18.75% oligomeric procyanidins. The optimal dosing regimen and duration of use are still being established, but benefits have generally been observed after 2 to 6 months of continuous daily use. While the timing of administration relative to meals is not considered critical, consistent daily dosing is recommended to achieve therapeutic effects. The absorption and efficacy of hawthorn can be influenced by the formulation, with standardized extracts ensuring a consistent delivery of bioactive compounds. It is important to note that these dosages are based on research and individuals should consult a healthcare professional for personalized dosing recommendations, especially if they have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
FAQs
Is hawthorn extract safe for long-term use?
Current evidence suggests good safety for up to 6 months of use. However, long-term data beyond this period are limited, so consultation with a healthcare provider is recommended for extended use.
Can hawthorn be used alone for heart failure?
No, hawthorn extract is typically used as an adjunctive therapy alongside conventional medical treatments for heart failure, not as a standalone treatment.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Improvements in symptoms and blood pressure may become noticeable within weeks to several months of consistent daily use, with more significant benefits often appearing after 2-6 months.
Does hawthorn interact with blood pressure medications?
Yes, hawthorn may enhance the hypotensive effects of blood pressure medications. Close monitoring by a healthcare professional is advised if used concurrently.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12298042/ – This meta-analysis of 6 RCTs (n=428) found that hawthorn extract significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by 6.65 mmHg over 2–6 months. The study highlights the potential of hawthorn in hypertension management but notes heterogeneity in study protocols and the need for larger trials to optimize dosing.
- https://www.cochrane.org/evidence/CD005312_hawthorn-extract-may-be-used-oral-treatment-option-chronic-heart-failure – This Cochrane systematic review of 14 RCTs (n=855) concluded that hawthorn extract, as an adjunctive therapy, improved exercise capacity and symptoms in patients with chronic heart failure. It reported mild and infrequent adverse events, though mortality data were insufficient for definitive conclusions.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7047282/ – This comprehensive review details hawthorn's cardioprotective mechanisms, including its lipid-lowering, antioxidant, and endothelial function benefits. It emphasizes the strong preclinical evidence supporting these effects and calls for more clinical trials to investigate its impact on coronary atherosclerosis outcomes.
- https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2010/0215/p465.html – This source provides a general overview of hawthorn's uses and properties, often cited for its traditional applications and preliminary scientific findings. It serves as a foundational reference for understanding hawthorn's role in herbal medicine.
- https://www.drugs.com/npp/hawthorn.html – This resource offers a detailed summary of hawthorn, covering its common uses, potential side effects, drug interactions, and dosing information. It compiles information from various sources to provide a comprehensive profile of the supplement.