Historically Hawthorn (crataegus oxyacantha) was used by Roman physicians as a heart drug in the first century A.D. The literature from that period focuses on its symbolic use of Hawthorn for religious rites and political ceremonies. During the Middle Ages, Hawthorn was used for the treatment of “dropsy,” or congestive heart failure. Today, extracts of Hawthorn have been used extensively in Europe to treat a variety of circulatory disorders, including high blood pressure.

Hawthorn’s flowers, leaves and berries are all used in herbal supplements. Each is high in flavonoid content, which gives the plant powerful antioxidant properties. Hawthorn contains three groups of compounds which are key to the plant’s positive effects on the cardiovascular system. These constituent groups are the triterpenoid saponins, the amines and the flavonoids. By inhibiting free radical formation, Hawthorn’s antioxidant activity can be beneficial in maintaining healthy heart vessels and promoting overall heart health.

Research Indicates

Helps balance blood pressure

In a study of 132 individuals, standardized Hawthorn extract compared favorably to captopril, a member of a class of prescription medications known as ACE-inhibitors

Another study involving 136 patients, the Hawthorn group showed improvement in the areas of heart function, whereas the placebo group did not

May be useful for promoting restful sleep

Believed to support heart and circulatory system health including heartbeat, blood flow, control of artherosclerotic plaque.

May be useful in treatment of Raynaud’s disease and varicose veins

Research indicates Hawthorn may help preserve collagen

Recommended Dosage

Typical daily dosage ranges from 250 – 300 mgs; take 1 capsule one to two times daily with a meal

Cautions

If you are pregnant or lactating, consult your health care practitioner prior to using this product.

There are no known reports of toxicity associated with Hawthorn.