Organic Hawthorn Berry
Also known as: Crataegus pinnatifida, Crataegus monogyna, Crataegus azarolus, Hawthorn berry, Hawthorn fruit, Crataegus spp.
Overview
Organic Hawthorn Berry refers to the fruit of the *Crataegus* species, primarily *Crataegus pinnatifida*, *Crataegus monogyna*, and *Crataegus azarolus*. It is used traditionally and in modern supplements for cardiovascular health. Hawthorn berry contains bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and pectin, which contribute to its antioxidant and lipid-lowering properties. Hawthorn extracts are primarily used for heart-related conditions including chronic heart failure, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. The evidence base is moderately robust, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses supporting cardiovascular benefits. Evidence quality ranges from moderate to high for cardiovascular effects, with some emerging data on anticancer properties. It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, and teas.
Benefits
Hawthorn berry offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily related to cardiovascular health. It has demonstrated efficacy in improving symptoms and exercise tolerance in chronic heart failure patients, with meta-analyses showing statistically significant benefits (p < 0.05) in heart function parameters. Studies also report reductions in serum cholesterol and triglycerides, attributed to its polyphenolic content and pectin oligosaccharides. The antioxidant activity of hawthorn polyphenols contributes to reducing oxidative stress, a key factor in cardiovascular disease progression. Some RCTs indicate modest antihypertensive effects, but data are less robust than for heart failure. Most evidence pertains to adults with cardiovascular disease, especially chronic heart failure. Benefits on heart failure symptoms are typically observed after several weeks of supplementation.
How it works
Hawthorn's cardiovascular benefits are primarily mediated through antioxidant pathways, where polyphenols and anthocyanins scavenge free radicals, reducing oxidative damage to cardiac tissues. It also modulates lipid metabolism, with pectin oligosaccharides and polyphenols lowering serum lipids, potentially via inhibition of lipid absorption and enhancement of lipid metabolism. Flavonoids may improve endothelial function and nitric oxide availability, leading to vasodilation and blood pressure regulation. Some hawthorn extracts enhance myocardial contractility, improving heart function in heart failure. Molecular targets include enzymes and receptors involved in oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and cardiac contractility. Bioavailability is influenced by the form of extract and processing; heat and microwave treatments can increase anthocyanin levels, enhancing antioxidant capacity.
Side effects
Hawthorn is generally well-tolerated with a good safety profile in clinical studies. Common side effects (occurring in >5% of users) include mild gastrointestinal discomfort and nausea. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) include dizziness and headache. Rare side effects (<1%) include allergic reactions. Potential drug interactions exist with cardiac medications (e.g., digoxin), antihypertensives, and anticoagulants, so caution is advised. Patients on cardiac glycosides or with known allergies to hawthorn should consult healthcare providers. Due to limited data in pregnancy and lactation, use is not generally recommended. It is important to start with a low dose to assess tolerance and to monitor for any adverse effects.
Dosage
The typical minimum effective dose is 160–900 mg/day of standardized hawthorn extract, standardized to flavonoids or oligomeric procyanidins. Optimal dosage ranges are 300–900 mg/day in divided doses, depending on extract concentration. A maximum safe dose of up to 1800 mg/day has been reported in some studies without serious adverse effects. It is usually administered in divided doses with meals. Standardized extracts are preferred over raw berries for consistent dosing. Processing methods affecting anthocyanin content can influence efficacy. No specific cofactors are required, but concurrent cardiovascular medications should be monitored. It's important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage based on individual health status and potential drug interactions.
FAQs
Is hawthorn berry safe for heart disease?
Yes, evidence supports its safety and efficacy as an adjunct therapy in chronic heart failure. However, it should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
How long until benefits appear?
Improvements are typically seen after 4–8 weeks of consistent supplementation. It's important to maintain regular use to experience the full benefits.
Can it replace prescription medications?
No, hawthorn is complementary and should not replace prescribed heart medications. It should be used in conjunction with conventional treatments.
Are there risks with blood thinners?
Potential interactions exist with blood thinners; therefore, medical advice is necessary before combining hawthorn with anticoagulant medications.
Does organic status affect efficacy?
Organic cultivation may influence phytochemical content, but the clinical impact is unclear. Standardized extracts are generally preferred for consistent dosing.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7047282/ – This systematic review by Liu et al. (2020) on hawthorn extracts found significant serum lipid-lowering and antioxidant effects, supporting cardiovascular protection. The review included multiple RCTs with adequate sample sizes and demonstrated consistent biochemical improvements. The authors noted that heterogeneity in extract types was a limitation.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4907/11/5/564 – Basavarajappa et al. (2024) conducted a network pharmacology study that identified active compounds in hawthorn with potential anticancer targets, suggesting a novel therapeutic avenue. The study highlights potential molecular mechanisms, but clinical trials are lacking, and evidence remains preclinical. This research suggests a possible direction for future investigations into hawthorn's broader health applications.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11194443/ – The Mol.Biol Rep. meta-analysis (2012) of RCTs on hawthorn extract in chronic heart failure (n≥30 per group) showed statistically significant improvements in heart failure symptoms and exercise tolerance (p < 0.05), with moderate effect sizes. The study's control groups and blinding were adequate, supporting the reliability of the findings. This meta-analysis provides strong evidence for the benefits of hawthorn in managing chronic heart failure symptoms.
- https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/hawthorn – This resource from Mount Sinai provides a general overview of hawthorn, including its traditional uses and potential health benefits. It highlights hawthorn's role in cardiovascular health and notes its antioxidant properties. The information is intended for educational purposes and emphasizes the importance of consulting with a healthcare provider before using hawthorn supplements.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-527/hawthorn – WebMD's overview of hawthorn provides information on its uses, potential benefits, and safety considerations. It notes that hawthorn is used for heart conditions and may have antioxidant effects. The resource advises caution and consultation with a healthcare professional before using hawthorn, especially for those with existing medical conditions or taking medications.
Supplements Containing Organic Hawthorn Berry
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Ancient Multi Men's 40+ Once Daily
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NUTRIENT DENSE SUPER COMPLEX
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B-COMPLEX
VIMERGY®