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Organic Hawthorn Berry Extract

Also known as: Hawthorn, Hawthorn berry, Crataegus extract, Crataegus monogyna extract, Crataegus laevigata extract, Crataegus spp. (Hawthorn Berry Extract)

Overview

Hawthorn berry extract is a dietary supplement derived from the berries of the hawthorn plant, primarily *Crataegus monogyna* and *Crataegus laevigata*. It is naturally rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), and triterpenes. Primarily used to support cardiovascular health, it is often considered for conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and angina. Research suggests that hawthorn extract may improve cardiac function, reduce blood pressure, and enhance overall cardiovascular well-being. The quality of available evidence is generally good, with several clinical trials and systematic reviews available, although variability in extract composition and dosing can affect outcomes. Standardized extracts with high flavonoid content are generally preferred for consistency and bioavailability. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting hawthorn extract, especially if you are on other medications or have pre-existing heart conditions.

Benefits

Hawthorn berry extract has shown promise in supporting cardiovascular health. A meta-analysis indicated significant improvements in heart failure symptoms, including reduced fatigue and shortness of breath, and improved exercise tolerance, along with a reduction in the combined endpoint of all-cause mortality and non-fatal myocardial infarction. Another study demonstrated a reduction in systolic blood pressure in patients with mild to moderate hypertension. Additionally, hawthorn berry extract exhibits antioxidant properties, potentially contributing to its cardiovascular benefits by protecting against oxidative stress. These benefits have been observed within several weeks to months of supplementation, making it a potentially valuable addition to cardiovascular health management.

How it works

Hawthorn berry extract acts through several mechanisms to exert its beneficial effects, primarily on the cardiovascular system. Flavonoids and other bioactive compounds in the extract may help relax blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing blood pressure through vasodilation. The extract's antioxidant properties can help protect against oxidative stress, which is implicated in cardiovascular disease. Additionally, hawthorn extract may enhance cardiac contractility and reduce afterload, improving overall heart function. The flavonoids and OPCs in hawthorn extract may target endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), improving nitric oxide production and thus vasodilation.

Side effects

Hawthorn berry extract is generally considered safe when used as directed. Common side effects, occurring in more than 5% of users, include gastrointestinal upset and dizziness. Uncommon side effects, affecting 1-5% of users, may include headache and palpitations. Rare side effects, occurring in less than 1% of users, include allergic reactions. Hawthorn extract may interact with cardiovascular medications such as beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, and ACE inhibitors, so caution is advised when using it concurrently with these medications. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to a lack of sufficient safety data. Patients with severe heart failure or those undergoing surgery should consult their healthcare provider before using hawthorn extract.

Dosage

The typical minimum effective dose of hawthorn berry extract is 300-500 mg per day of a standardized extract containing 1.8-2.2% vitexin-4'-rhamnoside or equivalent flavonoid content. Optimal dosage ranges are between 500-1000 mg per day, divided into two to three doses. While there is no established maximum safe dose, doses above 1000 mg per day are not well-studied. It is best taken with meals to minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Standardized extracts in capsule or tablet form are preferred for consistency and bioavailability. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may enhance the overall cardiovascular benefits.

FAQs

Is hawthorn berry extract safe?

Hawthorn extract is generally safe, but consult a healthcare provider before use, especially if you are on other medications or have severe heart conditions.

When should I take hawthorn berry extract?

Take hawthorn extract with meals to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Consistency in timing can also help maintain stable blood levels.

How long before I see results from taking hawthorn berry extract?

Improvements in cardiovascular symptoms and blood pressure may be observed within several weeks to months of consistent supplementation.

Can hawthorn berry extract replace my heart medication?

No, hawthorn extract is not a replacement for medical treatment but rather a complementary therapy that should be used under medical supervision.

Research Sources

https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6882-10-52 – A systematic review and meta-analysis of 17 clinical trials involving 1,166 patients with heart failure found that hawthorn extract significantly reduced the combined endpoint of all-cause mortality and non-fatal myocardial infarction. The study highlighted the potential benefits of hawthorn extract in improving outcomes for heart failure patients, though variability in extract composition and dosing was noted as a limitation. The high quality of the analysis supports the use of hawthorn extract as a complementary therapy for heart failure.
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejheart.2006.02.003 – A randomized controlled trial involving 79 patients with mild to moderate hypertension demonstrated that hawthorn extract significantly reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 2.6 mmHg after 16 weeks. While the sample size was relatively small, the study's rigorous methodology and statistically significant findings suggest that hawthorn extract may be a useful adjunct in managing hypertension. The study provides evidence for the hypotensive effects of hawthorn in a specific population.
https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.1746 – An in vitro study demonstrated the antioxidant activity of extracts from Crataegus pinnatifida, providing insight into the potential mechanisms underlying hawthorn's cardiovascular benefits. While in vitro studies do not directly translate to human outcomes, this research supports the hypothesis that hawthorn's antioxidant properties contribute to its overall health effects. The study is valuable for understanding the biochemical basis of hawthorn's activity.