Also known as: Crataegus, Hawthorn Berry
Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) is a well-researched herbal remedy traditionally used for cardiovascular support. Its flavonoids and oligomeric procyanidins improve coronary blood flow, support heart muscle function, and may reduce mild heart failure symptoms.
Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna and Crataegus laevigata) has been used in European herbal medicine for centuries to treat cardiovascular ailments. The berries, leaves, and flowers contain a complex mixture of flavonoids (hyperoside, vitexin, rutin), oligomeric procyanidins (OPCs), and triterpenic acids. These compounds improve coronary blood flow by promoting endothelial nitric oxide release, exert positive inotropic effects on the heart muscle, and possess mild ACE-inhibitory properties. The large SPICE trial and several Cochrane reviews have evaluated hawthorn extract WS 1442 in patients with New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II–III heart failure, showing improvements in exercise tolerance, reduced symptoms of fatigue and dyspnea, and enhanced quality of life. In Germany, hawthorn preparations are approved by the German Commission E for declining cardiac performance corresponding to NYHA stage II. Hawthorn is considered very safe with a low side-effect profile.
Cochrane reviews and the SPICE trial demonstrate that hawthorn extract improves exercise capacity, reduces symptoms of fatigue and shortness of breath, and improves quality of life in NYHA class II–III heart failure patients.
Hawthorn extract exhibits mild ACE-inhibitory and vasodilatory properties, contributing to modest reductions in blood pressure observed in clinical trials.
Flavonoids and OPCs in hawthorn promote nitric oxide release and vasodilation in coronary arteries, improving myocardial oxygen supply.
Divided into 2–3 doses throughout the day
Use standardized extracts (WS 1442 or LI 132) as studied in clinical trials. Effects develop gradually over 6–8 weeks.
Once or twice daily with meals
Lower doses are suitable for preventive cardiovascular support in healthy adults.
Evidence-based cardiovascular support
Mild cardiovascular support and relaxation
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